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MRS. E. A. B. MITCHELL 



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THE LAKE OF PEACE 



AND OTHER POEMS 



BY 
MRS. E. A. B. MITCHELL 




PRESS OF 

EATON & MAINS 

NEW YORK 






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Copyright, 1 91 1, by 
Mrs. E. a. B. Mitchell 



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DEDICATED TO 
HORACE AGARD BROOKS 

My brother, at thy memory's shrine 
I offer these heart-leaves of mine, 
And every page on which thine eye 
Hath lingered oft — in days gone by — 
Is dearer for thy sake to me, 
Since prized so tenderly by thee. 
And sweet the thought that I ere long 
May share with thee in richer song. 



CONTENTS 



PAGE 

The Lake of Peace 7 

The Woof of Life 8 

"Present Help" lo 

The Sister of Love 1 1 

My Christmas Text 12 

My Guest of New Year's Eve 1 3 

Little Duties 15 

The Human Heart 16 

Birth-Day Verses to my 

Father 17 

God Loves Me 18 

A Lesson for Each 19 

The House of God 20 

Along the Way 21 

In Memoriam 23 

Lead Me Higher 24 

October Hymn 24 

Faith 25 

My Child 26 

"Like as a Father" 27 

Little Anna 28 

We Three 29 

The Nodding Wake- Robin. 30 

Come to the Woods 31 

Be Happy 33 

Child-Thoughts 33 

Summer is Gone 34 

Thou Art Missed 35 

My Link to Heaven 37 

Valentine to my Husband.. 37 

Still One 38 

In Sorrow 39 

"He Careth" 40 

Thy Will Be Done 40 

Visit to my Montrose Home 4 1 

The Soul's Magnet 44 

The Drummer Boy 44 

Burial at Camp 45 



PAGE 

Sainted Martyr 46 

We Bow in Tears 47 

Hymn of Victory 48 

God Our Refuge 49 

To My Far-Oif Brother 50 

To My Sister Alice 50 

"Blood Relation" 51 

The Mother's Welcome 53 

Spring Whispers 54 

Our Mother 55 

Gone 56 

Divine Whispers 57 

"Perfect Peace" 58 

The Fairy's Lesson 58 

Soul-Liturgy 60 

Prayer for a Young Traveler 60 

Jesus Suffered 61 

Be Ready.. 62 

Thy Word 63 

Walking by Faith 63 

The Water Lihes 64 

The Bird-Nest 65 

God is Good 67 

A Plea for Little Ones 68 

From Old to New 69 

Good Night! 70 

The Gospel of the Spring. . . 70 

Christ's Love 71 

"He Knoweth Our Frame". 72 

Prayer 73 

Invocation to the Blue Bird 74 

"Love One Another" 75 

Imperfect Life- Woof 76 

"We Know in Part" 77 

"There's Nothing True but 

Heaven" 7& 

Be Patient 78 

Forbearance 79 



CONTENTS 



PAGE 

He Trusted in Riches 79 

In Reserve 80 

The Mother's Love 80 

The Beloved Physician. ... 81 

Sea Mosses 82 

Old Calendars 83 

October Twentieth 84 

The Dead Pastor 84 

Voices Floating o'er the Sea 85 

Stillness with God 87 

Be Kindly 88 

Keep Trying 88 

The Inebriates' Appeal. ... 89 

My Friend 91 

The Fallen 92 

The Gift to Christ 93 

"Knock and it Shall Be 

Opened" 93 

A Tribute 94 

The Inner Life 95 



PAGE 

Ministry of Suffering 96 

Looking Backward 98 

Wait Patiently 99 

Invocation to Sleep 100 

Gathering Leaves 100 

At Last loi 

Dissolution 102 

Clinging 103 

Saturday Night 104 

Be True to Christ 105 

Birthday Greeting 106 

Loss and Gain 106 

The Midnight Guests 107 

My Mother's Welcome 108 

Just One Promise 109 

Hold Fast 109 

God's Mercy no 

Parting With the Old Year. 1 1 1 

The Sotil's Guests 112 

The Unfailing Christ 115 



THE LAKE OF PEACE 

I know a vale within the heart, 
And there, shut from the world apart, 

A lake reposes. 
It is a fair and beauteous thing ; 
Bright emerald banks of fadeless Spring 

This lake incloses. 

And all along its margin twine 
The lowliest, loveliest little vines. 

Called sweet submission; 
And flowers, rare flowers, of rich perfume, 
Faith, hope, and love, together bloom 

In this seclusion. 

But towering far above all these, 
God's promises, those grand old trees. 

In strength are growing. 
Their roots lie in the heart so deep. 
That o'er this lake they firmly keep 

Rough winds from blowing. 

And thus from passion's storms secure, 
It looks so placid and so pure, 

So beautiful, 
I know God hath been in this place, 
Transforming all things by His grace 

Most wonderful. 
7 



8 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

The "still small voice" doth often wake 
Soft echoes o'er this quiet lake, 

The silence breaking ; 
And happy thoughts here sail and sing — 
Those birds of brightest, swiftest wing — 

Glad music making. 

This is the Soul's beloved retreat ; 
Here oft she comes with weary feet, 

With wounded feeling; 
And 'neath these trees, where all is calm, 
She ever finds some soothing balm, 

Finds leaves of healing. 

When faint and sick with care and fear. 
She bathes in the cool waters here. 

Till pain and fever cease. 
Oh, wondrous lake, forever fed 
By Christ, the living Fountain Head ! 

Unfailing Lake of Peace ! 



THE WOOF OF LIFE 

Though th' warp of the weaver be sombre as night. 
If th' shuttle is threaded with rays of pure light, 
Bright buds and fair flowers in pleasant relief. 
Will spring from the ground-work of sorrow and grief. 

Then, sad one, despair not, thy life is not vain. 
Though filled to the last with deep anguish and pain ; 
The woof that is fairest is woven of sighs. 
Begemmed by the tears flowing down from fond eyes. 



AND OTHER POEMS 9 

The Angels in Heaven could scarcely conceive 
Such lovely designs as a mortal can weave, 
Of a life that reflecteth the light of God's smile, 
Of days gliding by all untarnished by guile. 

We weave in the woof of life Earth's sweetest things, 
The smile of our mother, the song that she sings. 
The kiss of a dear one, the thrill of delight. 
The low loving words, the tender "good night.'* 

And sorrows that bow us to earth, and to God, 
The grace that sustains us when under the rod. 
The words of the dying, the look that endears, 
We weave them in softly in silence and tears. 

Of all that makes life is this strange fabric wrought, 
Of motive and impulse, of feeling and thought. 
Of threads many colored, and constantly spun 
In th' soul's secret chamber, seen only by One. 

And still at life's sunset we sit by the loom, 
To weave the last rose-tints, and shadows of gloom. 
We weave in our heart-strings, we weave in our all, — 
And this to make only a funeral pall ? 

Ah, no, a bright robe will the woof of life make. 
When washed in the blood that was shed for our sake, 
A robe most befitting and glorious to wear. 
In th' presence of God, in the mansions so fair. 



10 THE LAKE OF PEACE 



"PRESENT HELP" 

Though kindred hearts may help us bear 
The ills that lightly tauch us, 

There is but One can fully share 
The sorrows that would crush us. 

Our only language then is prayer, 
Our only refuge Jesus. 



Each conscious soul hath some time felt. 

Within some trying hour, 
Its utter helplessness, and knelt 

Before a higher power. 
If trials daily then are dealt 

We lean on Christ each hour. 



And when in agony intense. 

In suffering incessant, 
How sweet, how very sweet, the sense 

Of help forever present — 
Of One who leads through darkness dense 

To paths all bright and pleasant. 



He will not break the bruised reed. 

But still more fondly cherish ; 
Its roots in Him find all they need 

To strengthen and to nourish. 
Though bruised hearts the while may bleed, 

In God they cannot perish. 



AND OTHER POEMS 11 

When aught from out our life He takes, 

Some higher good is given : 
Our loss our gain He ever makes, 

If for the right we've striven. 
For every earthly tie He breaks 

He adds a link to Heaven ! 

We know, and feel, that God is just, 

In greater things or smaller. 
We thank Him for this blessed trust 

Which will not let us falter. 
Though dearest hopes lie in the dust. 

Though the tomb is made an altar. 

But not in vain, O not in vain 

Was e'er one sorrow given ! 
The heart which grieveth oft with pain 

Is oft to Jesus driven. 
And those who life-long grief retain 

Oft dwell the nearest Heaven. 



THE SISTER OF LOVE 



MARTHA BROOKS 



She wears a brow serenely calm. 
And on her lips she hath a balm 

For every wounded heart. 
Some tender word, so low and sweet. 
With love and sympathy replete. 

And healing to impart. 



12 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

And she hath tears to weep for all, 
And feet to go at every call, 

And hands that never tire. 
Such thoughtful ministries to make. 
Such sacrifice for others' sake. 

Love only can inspire! 

She giveth stricken hearts relief, 
Yet bears herself a deeper grief 

In silence and alone. 
So little thought of self she keeps 
I've doubted if she ever weeps 

O'er sorrows of her own. 

I gaze into her tranquil eyes, 
And wonder where the secret lies. 

The power to do and bear ; 
This only answer comes to me. 
This only solves the mystery — 

She gains her strength through prayer! 



MY CHRISTMAS TEXT 

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, 
that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have ever- 
lasting life." 

"God SO loved the world" — I read it. 

And the tears in silence flow 

O'er that love's sublime revealing. 

O'er the Babe in manger low. 



AND OTHER POEMS 13 

"Whosoever that beheveth" — 
Surely this is meant for me, 
And I clasp the fond assurance 
With a thrill of ecstasy ! 

"Should not perish" — O how precious ! 
"Everlasting life" is mine! 
Christ, I bow in fervent worship 
With the wise men at thy shrine. 

More than gold, myrrh, or frankincense, 

More to thee the gift I bring. 
Love the tenderest and purest. 

Love that e'er thy praise will sing. 



MY GUEST OF NEW YEAR'S EVE 

A guest, unannounced and unbidden, 
Stole into my chamber last night, 

And th' beautiful halo around her 

Filled th' room with a soft mellow light. 

She folded her wings and sat near me, 
Then spoke of the swiftness of time, 

And asked of the year that was closing, 
Had mine been a chapter sublime ? 

She came to look over my record. 
And ask for my noblest, best deed. 

To inscribe upon tablets eduring, 
Where saints of all ages might read. 



14 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

"Naught worthy to tell," I moaned sadly, 
And tears wet my pillow the while, — 
She left me in darkness and sorrow, 
And yet there was balm in her smile. 

My eyelids were heavy with slumber, 
My heart was o'erburdened with grief, 

Away in the dream-land I wandered. 
And eagerly sought for relief. 

I ventured far out on the mountain 
To a gate that was glowing in light, 

And th' angel who'd sat by my bedside 
Came out with a look of delight. 

I asked her, "Can one with a record 
Of commonplace duties to give 

Go in to the King in His palace. 
Go in with the sainted to live ?" 

"God sees not as thou," she said sweetly, 

"An act to the world all unknown. 
And which thou hast long since forgotten. 
Is a star shining bright near His throne. 

"Come in, for to those poor in spirit 

A welcome the Father assures, 
And Jesus himself signed the title 

Which th' Kingdom of Heaven secures.' 



AND OTHER POEMS 15 

LITTLE DUTIES 

I dare not pass them over, 

These Httle duties mine, 
Nor think the least unnoticed 

By Him, our Lord Divine. 

The task, however humble, 

He gives my hands to-day 
Must surely for the present 

All nobler tasks outweigh. 

Enough to know He orders ; 

Enough to win His smile; 
Then most distasteful duties 

Grow beautiful the while. 

All lowly, abject service 

To me seems strangely sweet, 

Since the King, Creator, Savior, 
Washed His disciples' feet ! 

It must be grand and glorious 
To do great things for Him, — 

We might see great in little 
Were not our faith so dim. 

I watch vast fields of labor 

Which other workers fill, 
With deep and earnest longing 

Like them for Christ to till. 



16 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Perhaps my single acre 

Some precious seeds may yield, 

Which stronger hands will scatter 
Upon a larger field. 

God knows, and I am leaving 
My life-work in His care, — 

Without His aid and blessing 
No fruitage can it bear. 

But O, to know my duty. 
Then never from it swerve. 

Or heed if great or little. 
So I but truly serve! 



THE HUMAN HEART 

O tell me, who can fathom 
That deep and hidden spring. 

The heart — the human heart- 
That strange, mysterious thing? 

Vain, vain thy every effort ; 

Thou canst not tell how deep. 
Or what bright gems of beauty 

Far 'neath its waters sleep. 

And though so calm and tranquil 
May seem its placid face 

That not one wave of feeling 
Thy watchful eye can trace, 



AND OTHER POEMS It 

Far down beneath the surface 

Are waters sleeping never — 
For thought flows on unceasing — 

With undercurrent ever. 

And O, that secret spring 

Ice-cold may seem to be 
When it doth gush the warmest, 

And gusheth but for thee ! 

Then tell me, who can fathom 

That deep and hidden spring. 
The heart — the human heart — 

That strange mysterious thing? 



BIRTH-DAY VERSES 

TO 

MY FATHER 

BENJAMIN V. BROOKS 

Dear father, it is late ! 
Thou'st seen thy pets of years ago 
To womanhood and manhood grow, 

And thou art sixty-eight. 

Ah, once thy little girls 
Would lean for hours upon thy chair 
To twine thy dark and waving hair 

In groups of shining curls. 

And while with childish grace 
Our fingers wreathed them o'er and o'er. 
We'd look at thee, and all adore 

Our father's genial face! 



18 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Though time hath touched thy brow, 
O not less beautiful or fair 
Thy wrinkled face and silvered hair 

Seem to thy children now ! 

For age hath failed to harm 
The soul so noble, pure, and true, 
The soul whose love keeps fresh and new, 

And gives thy face its charm. 

To-day, with grateful tears, 
O God, we thank Thee for thy care. 
And pray Thee yet to kindly spare 

Our father many years. 



GOD LOVES ME 

I whisper it over and over at night, 

I breathe it again with the first dawn of light, 

God loves me, God loves me, O hymn of my soul, 

All day through my heart will its glad numbers roll! 

God loves me, and this is my star in the night, 
I bless e'en the darkness revealing its light, 
I clasp to my bosom the trials which prove 
His wonderful pity. His wonderful love. 

God loves me — this vine, with its blossoms so fair. 
Doth twine round the cross which I daily must bear; 
So sweet is its fragrance I would not forego 
The weight of the cross, though it bows me so low. 



AND OTHER POEMS 19 

God loves me — dear charm which I wear o'er my 

heart — 
And sooner with life than with this would I part, 
For O, I am sure that this one golden key 
Will open the mansions of Heaven for me! 

God loves me — the beautiful, beautiful thought 
With all that is fairest and dearest is fraught ; 
'Tis written in flowers wherever I tread, 
Tis written with stars on the scroll o'er my head. 

I read it in all that He gives or withholds, 
This love that my heart to His great heart enfolds, 
This love that stoops down in compassion to share 
Each sorrow of mine, and each burden of care. 

But not till I look on the face of thy Son, 
I'll know the full depth of Thy love. Holy One, 
Of love that could offer for me on its shrine 
The Life of Thy Life, the blest Savior Divine ! 



A LESSON FOR EACH 

Written upon the death of an aged friend who'had been totally- 
blind for thirty-three years. 

A beautiful spirit, all stainless and white, 

Has passed from her darkness up into the light ! 

I sit and gaze after, rejoicing through tears 

At th' glory that dawned o'er that night of long years. 



20 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

From priest, or from poet, hath never a word 
Far down in my soul all the deep waters stirred 
As this pure and true life, so quiet and still, 
These years of meek yielding to th' Infinite Will. 

Twas bliss to sit near her, and watch the dear face, 
And th' look of sweet peace and serenity trace. 
Ah, He who threw o'er her the shadow of night 
Gave unto her faith clear and far-reaching sight. 

By calm, patient waiting, through trust that ne'er 

swerved. 
By cheerful endurance, the Master she served. 
She knew not her life had a lesson for each, 
She knew not her years were but lengthened to teach. 

Oh, hearts ever troubled. Oh, souls searching out 
Your life's hidden meaning, in darkness and doubt, 
Take ye her firm faith, all her fond, childlike trust. 
In Him who errs never, the Holy and Just. 



THE HOUSE OF GOD 

Oh, beautiful, beloved retreat. 
Where God with waiting souls will meet, 
Where earth recedes, and heavenly grace 
Illumes each true believer's face. 

Peace walks with me adown the aisle, 
Love greets me with a tender smile, 
And Faith — ^the fervent and the true — 
Sits always with me in my pew. 



AND OTHER POEMS 21 

And blending with the organ's note 
Sweet hymns Hke Angels' round me float, 
And through His servant Christ I hear 
Speak words of comfort and of cheer. 

Dear house of God, here fond hearts wed, 
And here we bring our precious dead — 
Here penitents forgiveness find 
And Heaven's rich boon, a tranquil mind. 

Oh, beautiful, beloved retreat. 

Where God with waiting souls will meet — 

And here we pledge to Him anew 

We will be loyal, will be true. 



ALONG THE WAY 

Each one finds enough of sorrow 
On life's weary, toilsome way ; 

Then, as side by side we journey, 
Have some pleasant thing to say. 

Words, like vibrants from the lute strings, 
Wake the heart to joy or pain — 

Kindly shield from needless anguish, 
And the jarring words refrain. 

Touch but softly on your sorrows. 

Or the trials that you meet; 
But be watching, always watching. 

For the roses at your feet. 



22 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

'Mid the weeds of poison growing 
Fairest blossoms oft you find — 

Like the bee, take all the sweetness, 
And the bitter leave behind. 

Let the blessings gild the crosses. 
As they come to you each day, 

And the darkness of December 
Be made light with thoughts of May. 

"Bear ye one another's burdens," 
Let no heart endure alone ; 
Caring for a brother's sorrow 
Brings a healing to your own. 

Have you courage? shield the timid. 

Are you strong? defend the weak. 
If a life is truly noble 

Others' good it aims to seek. 

It is wise to ask not largely 

Human sympathy or aid, 
Lest some heart, o'ertaxed already, 

'Neath your burden crushed is laid. 

God alone will prove sufficient 
For our hours of greatest need, 

And the past attests how ready 
He hath been our cries to heed. 

White stones mark the many Bethels 
Where our nights were filled with song, 

Where from conquest unto conquest 
He hath led us safe along; 



AND OTHER POEMS 33 

While from rugged mountain windings, 
Where our feet not yet have trod, 

Voices sweet float down assuring 
Of the faithfulness of God. 

And we know the bliss of Heaven 

Will a thousand times repay 
For the sorrows and the burdens 

We have borne along the way. 



IN MEMORIAM 

Charles A. Munger died September 3d, 1873. 

Weep, Owego, — ^fold around thee 
Blackest robes of grief and woe, 

For the son in whom thou gloried'st 
Lies within his coffin low! 

He who gave thy sorrows language. 
Sang the requiems for thy dead. 

Left not here one soul so gifted. 
None to sing for him instead. 

Nature, thou alone canst offer 
Fitting utt'rance to our grief, 

Tears of rain, and wind low moaning, 
Fading flower, and falling leaf. 

Susquehanna, how thy dirges 
Evermore the heart will thrill. 

Chant on, chant on the poet's requiem, 
Through the ages chant it still! 



24 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

With each spring will come the ''blue bird," 

Made immortal by his pen, 
Tend'rest love and faith inspiring 

Till beyond we meet again ! 



LEAD ME HIGHER 

I am weary of the night. 
And I see the hill-tops bright, 
Ever bathed in golden light, — 
Father, lead me higher! 

Lead me up above the storm. 
Let my shivering soul grow warm 
Close beside the Savior's form, — 
Father, lead me higher! 

Oh, I hear the joyful shout 
Of the saints upon the Mount, 
And my longing soul cries out, 
Father, lead me higher! 



OCTOBER HYMN 

It is the Sabbath of the year. 
This golden month, October, — 

And in its stillness God comes near. 
And Angel-hosts float over. 

Subdued by influences sweet, 

By benedictions tender. 
The soul goes forth its God to meet, 

And fervent homage render. 



AND OTHER POEMS 25 

From every tree wave banners fair 

To greet the King of Heaven, 
While grateful incense fills the air, 

And silent praise is given. 

Beneath this calm and tranquil sky, — 
When heaven and earth seem blended, — 

How blissful it would be to die, 
Were but our mission ended. 

Blissful 'twill be, if life of ours 

Yields fruit, when toil is over; 
If more than bright hued leaves and flowers 

Make rich our life's October. 



FAITH 



How many thoughtless lips have said, 
*Give us this day our daily bread;" 
It seems not much to say, 
When plenty crowds our way, 
But when rung out by urgent need. 
Then, surely, this is prayer indeed. 

Before the human heart will kneel. 
It must be taught to keenly feel. 

Necessity can teach 

This lesson unto each, 
And when in self we nothing find. 
In Christ we see all things combined. 

While here no human aid we know. 
And every earthly hope burns low, 



26 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

In helplessness to lie, 
And watch the years go by, 
Still trusting in the Crucified, — 
Oh, this is faith, the true and tried. 

When with clear skies and gentle gales, 
Our vessel gaily, proudly sails, 

Tis then a pleasant thing 

Of faith in God to sing, 
And easy seems to trust His power 
To shield us in each coming hour. 

But when black clouds shut out the sky. 
And th' fierce wind beats wild and high, — 
To lean upon His arm. 
Whose voice can quell the storm. 
And feel that there we are secure, 
This is the faith that will endure ; — 

Endure, though all else pass away. 

And we lie mouldering back to clay; 
This shall death's power resist. 
And while God lives, exist. 

Oh, rich the heart this jewel wearing! 

And rich the life its radiance sharing ! 



MY CHILD 

A Thankoifering 



How much I thank Thee for this gift 
Thou only, God, canst know; 

My heart in deepest gratitude 
Doth melt and overflow. 



AND OTHER POEMS 27 

I gaze in silent ecstasy 

Upon her lovely face, 
The impress of Thy finger, God, 

In every line I trace. 

I know this precious child of mine 

Thy hand hath given to me, 
I know it by the mystic power 

That turns my heart to Thee. 

I cannot look in those blue eyes. 

Raised lovingly to mine. 
But that a grateful thought will rise 

Like incense to Thy shrine. 

How much I thank Thee for this gift 

Thou only, God, canst know, 
My heart in deepest gratitude 

Doth melt and overflow. 



"LIKE AS A FATHER" 

Our little household pet to-day 
Came crying, sobbing, from her play. 
And none of us could think, or guess, 
(What gave her baby heart distress. 

But quick to papa's arms she fled, 
Then nestled on his breast her head,- 
And it was beautiful to see 
The father's loving sympathy. 



28 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

He wiped her tears, stroked her soft hair. 
Kissed o'er and o'er the face so fair. 
And soothed with fondest words the while,- 
Till she looked up w4th happy smile. 

And thus we older ones may go 
To God, our Father, with each woe; 
Nor need we tell the pain we feel, 
One look will all to Him reveal. 

**Like as a father," words more sweet 
The human lip may ne'er repeat. 
And thou, my friend, will find how good, 
How kind and true God's fatherhood. 



LITTLE ANNA 

She came to us 'mid April showers, 

The dearest, fairest thing 
That ever to this life of ours 

Was lavished by sweet Spring. 

Just when the evening and the day 

In fond embrace had met. 
We joyed to find along our way 

This blue-eyed violet. 

Four years have left their sunshine now 

Within her silken hair. 
But O, upon her lovely brow 

No shade of sin or care. 



AND OTHER POEMS 29 

These years are to life's changeful song 

A happy, glad prelude, — 
But will the next strain echo long? 

Ah, death may close it rude. 

Whene'er that song all swan-like dies, 

Faint echoed o'er time's sea, 
O God, renew it in the skies, 

One endless melody! 



WE THREE 



Peep into our little coop, — 
We are such a joyous group. 

We three. 
Husband with his heart so true, 
Daughter with her eyes so blue. 

And me. 

Humble is our cottage dome. 
Yet on earth no happier home 

Ye'll see, 
For not one discordant note 
On the charmed air doth float 

Harshly. 

And would you the secret know 
Why our lives forever flow 

Sweetly ? 
There's an altar in our home 
'Round which mom and evening come 

We three. 



30 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

There our waiting hearts are given 
Thoughts and feelings born of Heaven 

Surely, 
And by love God doth impart 
We are blended in one heart, 

We three. 



THE NODDING WAKE-ROBIN 

A Wild Flower — Trillium Pendxilum 

There bloomed a sweet flower 

Far down in a dale; 
But morning's gay hour 

Found her cheek wet and pale. 

She wept for her lover 

Asleep in his nest — 
She longed to be pillowed 

Upon his soft breast. 

She sighed for the robin 

Whose rich strains would woo, 
Who'd kiss from her eyelids 

The bright tears of dew. 

"Oh wake, robin, wake," 

Was her low, plaintive sigh; 
And her warm perfumed breath 
Reached the robin near by. 

With a song he came flitting 
Close down by her side. 

And claimed her that morning 
His beautiful bride. 



AND OTHER POEMS 31 

On the bank of the streamlet 

The fond pair were wed — 
She blushed at the altar, 

And hung down her head. 

She still wears that blush. 

And bends her fair brow, 
So we call the sweet flower 

"Nodding Wake-Robin" now! 



COME TO THE WOODS 

Come to the woods, to the woods away, 
For this is Nature^s holiday. 
She hath put on her robe of green 
Broidered with flowers of richest sheen. 

Come to the woods, dear little child, 
With voice so sweet and look so mild, 
Fond Nature's lap is spread for thee. 
Bound in, bound in with a shout of glee ! 

Come to the woods, thou gentle maiden. 
Thy young heart with love-thoughts laden- 
Wouldst thou hidden charms discover. 
Bring along thy proud boy-lover. 

He'll gaze into the violet blue 
And say thine eyes have a brighter hue, 
He'll find the fair anemone 
And call it fitting type of thee. 



32 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Houstonias like purest pearls 

He'll twine among thy silken curls; 

The little delicate speedwell 

The secret of his heart shall tell. 

And thou wilt blush like the mountain pink 
Such pleasant draughts of bliss to drink. 
Oh, the woods, the woods for love are meet, 
Then hie away to the wild retreat ! 

Ye sorrowing ones, who weeping gave 
The loved and loving to the grave. 
Come to the woods and solace find, 
O, learn that God is good and kind. 

For He who watched the germs of flowers 
Through all the dreary winter hours 
Thy buried buds afresh will bring 
In the resurrection spring. 

Sad child of poverty and woe, 
Come where the graceful lilies grow, 
And trust in Him whose tender care 
Doth give each flower a rope so fair. 

Thou homeless one, thy lone heart bring 
Here where the little sparrows sing. 
For He who gives to each a nest 
Will bring thee to a home of rest. 

Come ye who joy, and ye who grieve. 
Where the birds and breeze soft music weave, 
And read the lessons, read with care, 
By God's own finger written there. 



AND OTHER POEMS 33 

BE HAPPY 

"Be happy, be happy," the little bird sings 
As it bathes in the sunshine its beautiful wings; 
A thousand sweet voices repeat the glad strain 
Till vocal with music the wood-land and plain. 

The flowers all smile as they quaff the pure dew, 
The very skies laugh till the tears will steal through ; 
And when o'er the earth night shall spread her soft 

wing 
The stars will look down and a vesper hymn sing. 

"Be happy, dear mortal," God writes everywhere, 
Then cast on thy Father each burden of care ; 
He made this bright world and its fair things for thee, 
And they are all happy, — Oh, why are not ye? 



CHILD-THOUGHTS 

Our little girl thinks many things 
Come down direct from Heaven, 

That God sends thence each bird that sings, 
With loving message given. 

At early morn she hastens out, — 
Her face so fresh and bright — 

To find the flowers God dropped about 
While we all slept at night. 

The lawn and garden yield their part 

In many a glad surprise. 
And never fails her little heart 

God's love to recognize. 



34 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

The pretty pebbles by the brook, 

The shiny fish that swim, 
Each tuft of moss, or shady nook, 

All turn her thoughts to Him. 

"How good God is !" are her dear words 
O'er every pleasant thing, 
Refreshing rain, or song of birds. 
E'en a butterfly's gay wing. 

And they are said with happy face 
O'er many an answered prayer. 

For she so young has learned to trace 
All good to heavenly care. 

To-night she leaned upon her bed 
And watched the sunset hue, — 
** 'Twas from the yellow cloud," she said, 
"My dear canary flew." 

My bird, bird of immortal wing. 

Thy home is in the sky. 
Ah me, too soon will Angels sing, 

"Sweet wanderer, homeward fly." 



SUMMER IS GONE 

How fast the Summers come and go, 
I'm sure it was not always so. 
For in my childhood days of song 
Each season lingered with me long. 



AND OTHER POEMS 35 

And what a life of joyous play 
Was measured only by a day. 
A Summer then an age would seem, 
Though now it passes like a dream. 

If year by year glides swifter by 
How soon will come the time to die; 
How brief the longest life will be, 
Yet — endless as eternity! 



THOU ART MISSED 

My little daughter, thou art missed, 
Spring zephyrs breathe thy name, 

And ask me for the brow they kissed 
When last to earth they came. 

I wander by the little brook. 

Which scarce a year ago 
Reflected back thy joyous look, 

Thy face in health's rich glow. 

And fast, still faster, tear drops start, 

For with a pleading tone 
Each wavelet murmurs to my heart, 

"Why wander here alone?" 

'Where are the dimpled hands that sought 

The flowers upon my bank? 
Tell me, lone one, have ye not brought 

That sweet- voiced Anna back?" 



36 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

And e*en the grass, the fresh young grass, 

Sends up its plaintive cry, 
As on with heavy tread I pass. 

With mournful, downcast eye. 

"Oh, where is she whose tiny feet 
Fell soft as April rain. 
Whose voice than song of birds more sweet, 
Will she not come again?" 

Each bird that flits from bough to bough 
Seems chanting e'er this strain, 
"The Spring has come, and why not thou ? 
Anna, come back again!" 

The budding maples on the hill. 
Each charm that Spring hath brought. 

My heart with memories doth fill. 
All with thine image fraught. 

I hear the laugh of children sweet 

Ring on the balmy air, 
I turn the happy group to meet, — 

But Anna is not there. 

My Beautiful, and canst thou know 

In thy pure clime above. 
How much I miss thee here below, 

Thou child of light and love? 

To others Spring will give delight, 
To them this earth seems fair. 

To me the sky alone looks bright. 
For thy dear home is there. 



AND OTHER POEMS 37 

MY LINK TO HEAVEN 

Above the clouds, above the night, 
Where richest strains are swelling, 

There, 'mid the joyous saints of light. 
Is my sweet cherub dwelling. 

She looketh up in God's own face 

And calleth Him her Father, 
Then down to this benighted place 

And calleth me her mother. 

Rejoice, rejoice, O heart of mine, 

That such a link is given 
To bind thee to the God divine, 

To draw thee up to Heaven. 



VALENTINE 

TO 
MY HUSBAND 



A heart all desolate 
Sent forth a soft, low strain of love. 
Like sorrowing plaint of some lone dove 

That had no mate — no mate. 

Most tender melody. 
Meant for this heart — and this alone — 
That echoed back an answering tone 

Deep fraught with sympathy. 



38 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Dear, faithful, loving breast. 
Since then how many years have fled, 
And yet this weary, weary head 

Finds here its sweetest rest! 



STILL ONE 



Ne'er severed. Love, our lives can be, — 
Mine thou hast borne to Heaven with thee, 
And thine is still on earth with me. 

So truly one our lives had grown 

They cannot now exist alone. 

For thine is mine, and mine thine own. 

I know thou dost not love me less, 

All consciously I yet possess 

Thy priceless wealth of tenderness. 

The pure, sweet bliss of wedded days 
Deep in my heart forever stays. 
And fills thy soul with loftier praise. 

Thy patient years of suffering, 
Like gentle angels round me cling, 
As in soft undertone they sing. 

And oh, they do not sing in vain. 

My heart grows stronger with each strain 

That breathes thy triumph over pain. 

Nerved by thy faith, I calmly go. 
And only God Himself can know 
How rich my life through thine doth grow. 



AND OTHER POEMS 39 

My pathway glows with light Divine — 
I follow where thy foot-prints shine — 
And God, and Christ, and thou, art mine! 



IN SORROW 



Forgive, — I have but tears for thee, 

Oh, beautiful, gay Spring, 
For one whose love was life to me, 

Aback thou dost not bring; 
'Tis all thy loving hands can do. 
Above his grave fresh flowers to strew. 

I would to-night the stars were dim. 
Perchance 'twould solace me 

If while I grieve afresh for him 
TheyM seem in sympathy. 

But no, they still as brightly shine 

As when his eyes looked up with mine. 

And e'en the flowers he nursed still bloom- 
I watch the bright buds part, 

And wonder they feel not the gloom 
That resteth on my heart. 

Of all that in his love had share. 

Do I alone miss his fond care? 

Nay, there I see his favorite vine. 

And, like a human thing. 
It reacheth out for him to twine, 

Not knowing where to cling. 
Mute mourner, I were but like thee. 
Were there no Christ, no Christ for me ! 



40 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

But Thou, Oh God, giv'st joy and light 
In saddest, darkest hours! 

E'en now there comes a new deHght 
From fragrant Easter flowers. 

I know my risen Lord will bring 

Reunion and eternal Spring! 



"HE CARETH" 

And is it true that God hath care of me ? 
Of me a single drop in the vast sea? 
Ah, one in fellowship with Christ on earth 
Left here recorded words of priceless worth; 
He wrote, — and surely good Saint Peter knew, — 
"Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth 
for you." 



THY WILL BE DONE 

"Thy will be done," how easy said 

If God's will is but ours; 
If, in His tenderness. He spread 

Our path with moss and flowers, 
And at our side the dear one spare 
Whose love can soothe each grief or care. 

"Thy will be done," how hard to say, 

Said with a bitter moan- 
When o'er a rough and darkened way 

We go alone, alone! 
No sweet reply, though oft we call, — 
A deep, dread silence over all. 



AND OTHER POEMS 41 

I know, Oh God, Thy will is best, 

Nor murmur, nor complain. 
Yet faith bears not its strongest test 

But by the keenest pain. 
I cannot say with tearless eye 
The words which cost such agony. 

Not fully was their meaning learned 

Till Grief's hot iron pen 
Deep in my heart each letter burned, 

Ah, not till then, till then! 
Yet e'er through life the scars will be 
A sacred badge of victory. 

Dear Christ, the peace which Thou hast given. 
The wondrous strength to bear, 

The firm, unfailing hope of Heaven, 
And fond reunion there. 

Are but the trophies gained for me 

By struggles in Gethsemane! 



VISIT TO MY MONTROSE HOME 

Dear old home, my ceaseless longing 
Bids me to thy shelter turn 

Though I know he will not greet me. 
He for whom my soul doth yearn. 

No one at the door is waiting. 
To come forth with fond embrace. 

Oh, I cannot, cannot enter, 
I must find some resting place. 



42 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Let me take this path oft trodden 

By his weary, weary feet ; 
It will lead me by the flower-bed 

To his rustic, favorite seat. 

Side by side we sat together 

'Neath this tree a year ago, 
And I hear will wait and listen 

For his voice so sweet and low. 

Tenderly my heart recalleth 

How he watched the opening Spring, 

Gathering me the first red leaf-buds. 
Then some sprig from each green thing. 

And the earliest, fairest flowers 
Day by day his dear hand brought, 

Filling all our room with fragrance, 
And our hearts with holy thought. 

With what tender, touching gladness 
Did he welcome back the birds! 

E'en their songs were never sweeter 
Than his pleasant greeting words. 

Did they know 'twas his last spring-time? 

Ne'er came they so bright a throng ! 
Ne'er sang they such joyous matin. 

Or such rapturous vesper song ! 

To this orchard came his favorites, 
Robins, blue-birds, orioles gay, 

And he called me forth to listen 
When they sang at close of day. 



AND OTHER POEMS 43 

All around me is most sacred, 

All some touching story hath, 
From the grandly towering locust 

To the daisy in my path. 

And the house — Oh, I must enter, 

For my heart is growing wild 
With its crying and its hunger, — 

Like a lonely homesick child. 

But there's one room is so holy 

I must seek new strength through prayer, 
Ere I dare to meet the memories 

That will rise and greet me there. 

Is he here, my own beloved? 

Did he pass me on the stair, 
With the sweep of angel pinions, 

And a face divinely fair? 

Did he come and walk beside me 

To our room, as oft before ? — 
With his loving eyes bent o'er me. 

Does he sit by me once more? 

Not a whisper breaks the silence. 

Not the faintest sound I hear. 
Yet my soul is inly conscious 

That his spirit form is near. 

And the same sweet, restful feeling, 

All the quiet and the calm. 
That his earthly presence gave me, 

Falleth o'er my heart like balm. 



44 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Let me linger, — it is blessed 
Thus to feel the olden rest, 

As when burdened, faint, and weary, 
I have leaned upon his breast. 

Oh, this soul-felt sense of nearness 
Doth such hope to me impart, 

I will go to meet the future 
With a trustful, peaceful heart. 



THE SOUL'S MAGNET 

As turns the needle to the pole, 

O Christ, so turns to thee my soul. 

Thy love, the strong magnetic power. 
Draws close, and holds me, hour by hour. 

Soon as I yielded to thy will 

My trembling, quiv'ring soul grew still. 

And centered now in Thee I rest, 
Supremely calm, supremely blest. 



THE DRUMMER BOY 

A group of shining ones came down 
And hovered o'er him where he lay 

Upon the damp, dread battle-ground. 
His young life ebbing fast away — 
Yet living for the dear old flag to pray ; 



AND OTHER POEMS 45 

And when the victor's shout 

Rang g-loriously out, 
Upon that swelHng flood of joy- 
To Heaven was borne the drummer boy. 



BURIAL AT CAMP 

Bear gently, so gently the roughly-made bier — 
Perchance the freed spirit is hovering near, 
Then let these last tributes of tenderness prove 
The truth of your homage, the depth of your love. 

Now halt by the grave-side, the coffin lid raise — 
Once more on your comrade in mute sorrow gaze ; 
How peaceful he sleeps in his blanket all gore, 
His sword by his side — ah, he'll need it no more. 

Draw near, ye the truest, the freest from guile, 
And kiss the cold lips that will never more smile; 
For that mother's sake who will gratefully bless. 
From the damp, clotted hair, sever one precious 

tress. 

And then the lid softly, but firmly replace, — 
Great God ! there is one that to look on that face. 
And there by his side in that coffin to lie. 
Would willingly, cheerfully, happily die. 

Aye, linger one moment in silence to pray 
For those who will sorrow for him far away ; 
For her who will read o'er the list of the lost — 
Alas, what heart-sorrows doth Liberty cost! 



46 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

But lower down carefully into the grave 
The brother so kind, and the soldier so brave, 
There lay the turf lightly above his calm breast, 
And leave him with God, until Judgment, to rest ! 

And while o'er his form peals the loud booming gun, 
Remember that he hath his last battle won, — 
Hath conquered the foe that the bravest may dread, 
And the crown of the victor shall rest on his head. 

Then on unto battle undaunted again. 
Nor think ye one hero hath fallen in vain; 
The blood of each martyr cries loudly to God, 
And traitors shall bow 'neath His Almighty rod! 



SAINTED MARTYR 

Impromptu in my sick-room, on hearing the bells toll for Abra- 
ham Lincoln, Thursday, June i, 1865. 

Sainted Martyr, fallen Chief, 
Art thou conscious of our grief? 
From thy home amid the just 
Seest a Nation bowed in dust? 

Thousands o'er thy form have wept. 
Thousands in thy stead wouldst stept, 
And have deemed it joy to give 
Life for life, couldst thou but live. 

Never mortal ere hath left 
Thus so many hearts bereft, — 
Never manhood, greatness, worth, 
"Were so recognized on earth. 



AND OTHER POEMS 47 

Silently we weep today, — 
Naught that our lips can say 
Can the least our grief relieve, 
Or a fitting tribute weave. 

Sainted Martyr, fallen Chief, 
Art thou conscious of our grief? 
From thy home above the skies 
Dost thou hear our Nation's sighs? 



WE BOW IN TEARS 

Tribute to Horace Greeley 

We bow in tears. Oh, sainted one, 
Not that thy life-work now is done. 
But that a heart so good and true 
Such bitter depths of sorrow knew, — 

That after all thy faithful love 
Humanity so false could prove. 
And give thee for thy toil and care 
The sense of cold distrust to bear, — 

That even Afric's sons could turn 
And their bold champion rudely spurn. 
Aye, him whose pen did mightier prove. 
Than sword their shackles to remove. 

And guides of Temperance and Truth 
Forsook the leader of their youth. 
The great and wise whose heart and mind 
Gave life-long service to mankind. 



48 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

To aid the lowly and the weak 
His voice was ever first to speak, — 
His charity how deep, how broad, 
What faith in man, what faith in God! 

And far above all party strife 
He stood to guard the Nation's life ; 
It had no firmer, truer friend. 
Nor one so fearless to defend. 

And yet, and yet, my countrymen, 
What balm had ye to offer then. 
As fell that last most cruel stroke 
By which the patriot's heart was broke? 

Neglect, this was his dying meed. 
Desertion in the hour of need, — 
Hath ever spears such anguish wrung 
Since on the Cross the Savior hung? 

We bow in tears, Oh, noble heart. 
That thou in darkness shouldst depart, — 
But thy last words sweet solace giveth, 
*T know that my Redeemer liveth." 



HYMN OF VICTORY 

After the signing of the Peace Protocol between Spain and our 
United States of America. 

Thou God of Justice, God of right. 
It is Thy wisdom, and Thy might. 

That hath our battles won. 
Then up from the highest, grandest hight, 
We lift before the whole world's sight 

The cross of Thy dear Son! 



AND OTHER POEMS 49 

And close beside that cross to stand, 
E'er guarded by each patriot hand. 

The stars and stipes we raise. 
But while our heroes we applaud, 
And shall their names forever laud, 

To Thee be greater praise! 

For only by the Gospel's power 
Have we attained this golden hour, 

This triumph over wrong. 
We pray Thee still to guide and bless, 
And in all truth and righteousness 

Oh, keep our Nation strong! 



GOD OUR REFUGE 

Written during the burial services of our beloved President, 
William McKinley. 

Smitten, stricken, sore bereft, 
Yet to our Nation God is left, — 

A refuge ever sure. 
If all the powers of hell combine 
Death cannot touch the God divine. 

He ever shall endure. 

In midst of all our crushing woe 
We still to Him for help may go. 

And find unfailing aid. 
Christ comes to guard our Ship of State, 
And o'er the storm of cruel hate 

I hear, "Be not afraid !" 
September 19, 1901. 



60 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

TO MY FAR-OFF BROTHER 

With Wild Flowers 

My tiny bouquet, brother Charlie, 
Will whisper to thee of the time 

When after the cows, just at sunset, 
Far o'er the green hills we would climb. 

Tis fragrant with thoughts of our childhood, 
Fresh thoughts of the cool forest bowers, 

And rippling rills, where we oft loitered 
To gather the mint and wild flowers. 

Oh, th' moss-cushioned seat by the spring-side, 
'Twill rest thee to think of it now. 

And th' water we quaffed from a leaf-cup. 
Or showered in bright pearls o'er each brow. 

To those days, which were woven of sunshine, 
And broidered with flowers and ferns, 

At th' touch of sweet memory ever 
Thy sister's heart tenderly turns. 



TO MY SISTER ALICE 

Sit down by me, sister, and listen. 
Let me tell of thy babyhood hours. 

Of the first pretty fancy which chained thee. 
Of thy beautiful love for white flowers. 

We filled up thy lap with the brightest, — 
Repeating the test every day, — 

Then watched how the wee, dimpled fingers 
Threw all but the white ones away. 



AND OTHER POEMS 51 

And these thou wouldst gather up softly, 
With kisses and tender caress, — 

While we would look on in deep wonder. 
And never the meaning could guess. 

Why is it? why is it? we queried, 
But no one could answer us why ; 

And the lips of our sweet, dainty darling 
Gave only a smile in reply. 

'Twas a secret 'twixt thee and the angels, 
The angels who loved thee so well, 

Who knew that their low, holy whispers 
Thy baby lips never would tell. 

But love for the pure, which they nourished, 
Doth live in thy woman's heart now, 

'Tis the charm which envelopes thy being. 
The halo which rests on thy brow ! 



"BLOOD RELATION" 

I know a little blue-eyed girl 
With wealth of golden hair, — 

Not one of Reynolds' angel-group 
Seems more divinely fair. 

This little one of six glad years 
Hath fancies very sweet. 

Surprising us with questionings 
In pretty thoughts replete. 



62 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Her lore in blood-relationship 
Is great in one so young, — 

She counts her kith most tenderly, 
Like pearls in necklace strung. 

To-day she left wee sister's side. 
And, in her artless grace, 

Leaned on her mamma's lap and asked, 
With earnest, thoughtful face, 

"Is Jesus blood relation too? 

I love Him, love Him so 
I hope He is, and mamma dear, 

Please tell me if you know." 

A tender light, and beautiful, 
Came to the mother's eye, — 

I caught the glimmer of a tear, 
As thus she made reply, 

"Yes, darling, yes. He is blood-kin, 
And by His blood alone 

You are brought near to God, and made 
His child. His very own!" 

Dear little Florence, thy delight 
O'er this assurance given. 

Finds quick response in every heart 
That trusts in Christ for Heaven ! 



AND OTHER POEMS 53 



THE MOTHER'S WELCOME 

Written for my sister Adele 

O, Spotless white soul from the infinite breast, 
Here close in thy mother's arms tenderly rest ! 
I waited thy coming with hopes fond, and fears. 
And welcome thee now with glad, joyous tears ! 

To which of the sainted I've loved upon Earth 
Was't given, my darling, to watch o'er thy birth? 
And who were thy escorts this bright, happy day 
To bring thy pure soul to be linked with its clay ? 

I feel their fond presence, they lean o'er my bed. 
And over my heart a sweet influence shed — 
Ah, never before unto me hath been given 
Such deep love for God, and such nearness to 
Heaven ! 

My baby's wee fingers have brought down the key 
To closed, inner gates of the city to me, 
Thus, with the first hour of thy life, little one, 
Thy beautiful mission of love hath begun. 

Thy first breath awakened in each parent's heart 
Warm praise to the Father whose lent joy thou art- 
His blessing we ask for our own little girl. 
Till back on His bosom He sets the bright pearl ! 



54 THE LAKE OF PEACE 



SPRING WHISPERS 

Written for one bereft of his affianced 

The Spring has come with her voice of glee, 

And gay the fresh buds part, 
The Spring has come, but not to me, — 

'Tis Winter in this heart. 

Its flowers of hope all sadly perished 

With. the last Autumn leaves, 
And o'er the grave where sleeps the cherished 

My soul in silence grieves. 

And Spring will come no more to me, 

'Tis buried in her grave, — 
Yet o'er her young form I may see 

The flowers in soft breeze wave. 

O Anna, when this heart of mine 

Through grief is sanctified. 
And true, and pure, and good as thine. 

Worthy its angel-bride, 

Come back to me, my darling, come, 

And bear on thy soft wing 
A soul that pines for thy dear home. 

Thy home of fadeless Spring. 



AND OTHER POEMS 55 

OUR MOTHER 

Written for her eighty-eighth birthday 

Oh, where find words to fitly paint 

Our mother's loveliness? 
She dwells among us, our home-saint, 

Each life to daily bless. 

Her love for God a charm hath set 

Upon her tranquil face, 
Her love for souls hath added yet 

A tender, Christly grace. 

I watch her as she sits and sings 

Some quaint old melody. 
And think 'mid all earth's fairest things 

There's naught so fair to me. 

Her hymns float out as full and clear 
As bird-notes this glad morn, — 

With never song of sweeter cheer 
She cradled her first born. 

The gentle patience of long years 

Hath grown to heavenly calm. 
For all our restless, anxious fears 

Her presence seems a balm. 

Yet on life's sea her bark hath known 
Full many a storm, and great, — 

She only anchored to God's throne 
And learned to trust and wait. 



56 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Ah, she hath well and wisely wrought, 

Hath nobly met life's ills. 
And drawn from every bitter draught 

The good that faith distills. 

We cannot count our mother old, 
Time hath but touched her heart 

To store its depths with wealth untold. 
And added charms impart. 

Though on, still on, her years may roll. 
Freighted with love and prayer, 

'Twill ne'er be sunset with her soul. 
But morning bright and fair. 

Dear mother, can thy children know 
Such fresh, perpetual youth? 

Ah, if like thine their life-springs flow 
From God, The Word, The Truth ! 



GONE 



My mother's room ! I linger at the door, — 
Her sweet voice welcomes me within no more. 
The happy, tender greetings now are o'er, 
Ah me, are o'er. 

All other grief found ever here a balm, 
For mother's faith could hold us still and calm. 
And change the cry of pain to heart-felt psalm, 
A joyful psalm. 



AND OTHER POEMS 57 

But gone the face so saintly and so fair, 
The smile that shed a gladness everywhere, — 
And how we miss the dear old hymns and prayer, 
Our mother's prayer. 

But Oh, the joy amid her kindred throng 
When she, whose love for them was here so 

strong. 
Joins with them in the grand redemption song, 
The glad new song! 

And yet she seems so close by us to stay 
That but a breath might brush the veil away 
And let us see, as we shall see some day. 
Yes, some near day. 



DIVINE WHISPERS 

The busy world, the noisy world. 
When will it pause to hear 

The Holy Spirit's earnest words. 
Whispered distinct and clear? 

Oh, Love Divine, unfathomed love, 

How patient with us all! 
Though on we rush, nor heed Thy voice. 

Thou dost not cease to call. 

Amid the world's confusing din. 
Few hold their hearts so still 

That they can hear His undertone. 
And catch the words that thrill. 



58 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

But God will some time make for each 

A quiet, hushed retreat, 
Where, with the jostling world shut out, 

He and the soul can meet. 

The sick-room, or by some dear grave, 
May be this sacred tryst, — 

And there the ear will not be deaf, 
The heart will not resist. 



"PERFECT PEACE" 

Each throb of my heart is repeating 
The strain that my soul chants to-day, — 

Most sweetly the slow measured beating 
Seems over and over to say, 
"Peace, peace, perfect peace!" 

Though the chant and the hearth-throbs are 
blending. 
How soon each pulsation may cease, — 
But on through the ages unending, 
My soul will still sing of her peace, 
"Peace, peace, perfect peace!" 



THE FAIRY'S LESSON 

'Tis said that one evening a violet wept. 
While round her the daisies and buttercups slept. 
And starry eyes o'er her their fond vigils kept. 



AND OTHER POEMS 59 

A Fairy at rest in the violet's bed, 

Was startled by tear drops that fell on her head, 

"What grieves thee, my darling?" she tenderly said. 

"I've looked at those stars," the young Violet sighed, 
"Their glorious beauty hath roused all my pride, 
I scorn to dwell here by the common road side. 

"If I were a star beaming bright in yon sky, 

I'd then be admired by each human eye, 

While here I'm scarce seen by the few passers by." 

The Fairy spoke gravely and sadly she smiled : 
"It pains me most deeply, my favorite child. 
To know thou hast feelings and fancies so wild. 

" 'Tis this wicked pride that hath mortals undone ; 
If thou wert a star, then, my dear little one, 
Soon wouldst thou be wishing that thou wert the sun. 

"If the Great One who gives thee sweet sunshine 

and shower — 
Had wished thee a star, He'd not made thee a flower. 
And how canst thou murmur against the wise power ? 

"To be discontent is ungrateful in thee, 
When formed thus so lovely, yet lowly, to be 
A beautiful emblem of humility." 

Tlie Violet moaned, while the tear drops fell fast, 
And all that long night in sad penance she passed, 
But morning dawned calmly and brightly at last. 



60 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Most keenly the floweret felt her disgrace — 
But now of her sin there remaineth no trace, 
Except the bowed head of the Viola race. 

The wise Fairy's lesson 'tis well we should learn, 
And while our life-mission we seek to discern, 
The sphere God appointeth may none of us spurn. 



SOUL-LITURGY 

How simple grows our liturgy 

As earth-life nears the end! 
Through but the lifting of an eye 

True worship will ascend. 

''Dear Christ," this is my hymn of praise 
When joy my heart o'erflows. 

"Dear Christ," this is my prayer for help 
When faint the spirit grows. 

My creed, my faith, my very all, 
These two brief words enfold, — 

Through calm or storm, like chains of steel. 
Firm to the Rock they hold. 



PRAYER FOR A YOUNG TRAVELER 

Father, have her in Thy keeping 
On the land or on the sea ; 

Let her waking and her sleeping 
Find securitv in Thee. 



AND OTHER POEMS 61 

Give Thy angels charge concerning 

This dear one, I fondly pray; 
In the going and returning 

Bid them watch and guard alway. 

And whatever lessons taught her 

Ere we welcome her again, 
Never let her sweet faith falter! 

In the name of Christ, Amen. 



JESUS SUFFERED 

"He was a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief" 

While such a record shall remain, 
Whate'er our grief, whate'er our pain, 
How can we murmur or complain? 

"A man of sorrows," who may know 
What bitter depths of human woe 
Our Savior suffered here below! 

What days of toil, what nights of prayer,- 
In pitying love He came to share 
Our every burden, every care. 

Think of the heavy cross He bore, 
The piercing crown of thorns He wore, 
Think of the nails, the spear, the gore ! 

And with such memories as these, 
Oh, who could ask a life of ease. 
Or live one hour but self to please! 



62 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Since Jesus suffered, pain is sweet. 
It brings me lower at His feet ; 
In closer sympathy we meet. 

Ah, grief and anguish, what are ye 
But fragrance floating back to me 
From flowers of dear Gethsemane! 

Low at the cross my heart I bring, 
And there a song of triumph sing. 
Yet glory but in suffering. 



BE READY 



Listen: "Set thy house in order!" 
Lest the Master reach the gate 

And thou'lt hasten to make ready 
When He will not, cannot wait. 

Hath each room been swept and garnished. 
Cleansed from every stain of sin? 

Are the fires of faith kept burning. 
Shedding light and joy within? 

One is coming who will question 
With a searching eye and tone, 

And there then is no recalling 

When the working time hath flown. 

God is love, — ^yet God is justice! 

If ye trifle life away. 
Dare ye hope His tender mercy 

Can the law of justice stay? 



AND OTHER POEMS 63 

Be ye ready, is the summons, — 
Thus 'tis sweet, 'tis safe to live ; 

And the Master's sudden coming 
Then a glad surprise will give. 



THY WORD 



"Thy Word have I hid in my heart," O my Lord, 

Thy beautiful, wonderful Word! 
A marvelous work by it there hath been wrought, 

The deepest of depths hath it stirred. 

It came to me first through a mother's dear lips, — 

My mother most lovely and mild, — 
'Twere fitting such lips should be first e'er to give 

Thy Word to the heart of a child. 

It charmed me e'en then, — but it entereth now 

Far into my innermost life, 
And keepeth it calm as the sweet Sabbath morn. 

Whatever the outer world's strife. 

The soul that is poised on Thy sure Word, O God,- 
Like the eagle on mountain cliff hight, — 

Serenely looks down on the darkness and storm. 
Content in its fair realm of light! 



WALKING BY FAITH 

Thy providence, oh God, how deep 

To me its mystery! 
But through each trial I will keep 

A firmer hold on Thee. 



64 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

I have no joy, I have no light, 
Yet faith is still my own, 

'Twill lead me through the darkest night 
That earth hath ever known. 

I go with footsteps firm and sure, 
Though bowed with pain and grief — 

'Tis mine, oh Father, to endure, 
'Tis Thine to bring relief. 

Thou givest strength to bear my part, 
And faith to trust for Thine, — 

Too grateful is my waiting heart 
To falter or repine. 

I know this labyrinth of night, 

This darkly winding way. 
Leads up into the glorious light 

Of one eternal day! 



THE WATER LILIES 

From darkness and gloom 

How sweetly they bloom. 
These lilies so fragrant and white, 
With never a hint of the night 

And blackness of marl down below, 

In which their roots grow. 
While they are all smiling in light. 

May we by God's grace 
Lift thus a glad face, — 
With never a trace 



AND OTHER POEMS 65 

Of the pain and the anguish below, 
Since this we well know, 

All worketh for good, — 

Tho* not understood, — 
And we, like the lilies, will grow ! 



THE BIRD-NEST 

"Come, mamma, come quickly, and look on the ground, 
Here two darling birdies are hopping around, 
And what they are looking for I cannot guess," 
With wondering eyes whispered dear little Bess. 

"They're searching for something to build them a nest, 
A pretty round bed where their babies can rest, 
They gather up shreds, and the stray bits of hair. 
And weave them all in with most wonderful care." 

"Please, mamma, just cut them one curl from my head. 
You know it would make such a soft little bed." 
Then tenderly, sweetly, the young mother smiled, 
And severed the tress from her beautiful child. 

But not understanding, the frightened birds flew. 
As Bess from the window her offering threw, — 
"They'll come back," she said, "when the bright curl 

they see," 
And stole out to watch 'neath the old apple tree. 

Still patiently there on the grass mound she sat. 
Till th' weary head nodded and off dropped her hat. 
Then, like a pet kitten, she curled down to rest ; 
And dreamed all the while of the birds and their nest. 



66 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

She wakened — and gone was the wee shiny curl, 
"They came for it sure," laughed the gay little girl ; 
Nor would the fond mother the fancy dispel, 
But thought that the wind might its hiding place tell. 

The Summer went by like a dream of delight, — 
But Autumn came bringing its chill and its blight. 
Death passed through the garden, and fair things grew 

sere. 
Oh, would his cold breath had been felt only here ! 

He entered the cottage, and paused by the bed. 
Where nestled in slumber a golden brown head; 
He kissed the closed eye-lids, and Ah, nevermore, 
They opened to gladden that home as of yore. 

Mid th' sobbing of rain, and the wind's fitful moan, 
The mother went forth in her garden alone — 
Alone, Oh, the grief of a poor childless heart, 
What pen, or what lip, can its anguish impart? 

With hunger of soul, and a longing half wild, 
She searched for some trace of the little lost child, — 
Perchance she had left near her favorite seat 
A toy, or at least the dear prints of her feet. 

She sought every nook where her darling had played. 
And every by-path where her happy feet strayed, — 
In vain, all in vain, for there lingered no trace 
Of her whose glad presence had hallowed each place. 

No foot-print, no' flower, or relic was there. 
And th' mother wept long in the low garden chair. 
Had nature no tribute of love she could give 
To the bright little life that had joyed so to live? 



AND OTHER POEMS 67 

She turned toward the cottage with slow weary tread, 
With a heart that was heavy, and hopes that were dead. 
And found in her path-way — so dainty and brown — 
A pretty bird-nest, which the wind had tossed down. 

She gazed through her tears at the desolate thing. 
Bereft of sweet songs, and the lightly plumed wing, 
Left empty and lone like the heart that she bore. 
Its life, and its gladness, returning no more. 

But Oh, a strange comfort the tiny nest wrought, 
For there, interwoven and curiously wrought, 
Were th' golden brown threads of a beautiful curl, 
The soft silken hair of her own little girl ! 



GOD IS GOOD 

Yes, God is good, believing this 
Each anxious thought I soon dismiss. 
For I can trust His goodness still 
However dark each boding ill. 

He never left me yet alone 
Beneath a heavy cross to moan, 
But at my side hath ever stood 
To help me bear it — God is good ! 

How faithful He hath been to heed 
Each urgent call, each pressing need; 
If wisely He some wish denies 
The grace to bear He then supplies. 



68 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Since thus His ways I've understood 
I've raised this banner, '^God is Good' 
And with an ever thankful heart — 
Of pain or sorrow borne my part. 



A PLEA FOR LITTLE ONES 

Make childhood happy,* — after years 
Will bring enough of grief and tears ; 
Then while thy children round thee cling, 
Make each young life a joyous thing. 

I know a mother's kiss will cure 
All wounds that little hearts endure. 
I know a father's loving smile 
From all their sorrows can beguile. 

The time will come when thou wilt feel 
How weak thy power to soothe or heal, — 
When woman's soul and manhood's heart, 
In life's great trials bear their part. 

Then now, while limitless thy power, 
Oh, fill with joy each childhood hour, — 
And tiny drops 'twill only take 
Brim full and running o'er to make. 

Some pennies, or a whip, or toy. 
Makes richer far thy little boy 
Than all the gold thou'lt leave to him, 
When time and care his bright eyes dim. 



AND OTHER POEMS 69 

With thy great thought for future good, 
Let present wants be understood, 
Thy child can know no poverty 
Like lack of love and sympathy. 

Give roughest nature tender care, 
And thou wilt mold in beauty rare; 
Bear with their little wayward ways, 
Be slow to chide, be quick to praise. 

Be patient, should one sunny head 
Lie numbered with the early dead. 
How quickly then would mem'ry bring 
Each fretful word thy heart to sting. 

Be good, be true, for what thou art 
Is imaged on each pure young heart. 
Since other lives thy life controls, 
Work carefully 'mid deathless souls. 



FROM OLD TO NEW 

Take no hard or bitter feeling 

From the old year to the new, 
But before the Father kneeling. 

With a heart sincere and true. 
Ask the past to be forgiven, 
Ask that chains of sin be riven. 
And more love to Christ be given. 
As we turn from old to new. 



70 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

GOOD-NIGHT! 

Sleep sweetly, — let the key of prayer 
Lock thee in calm repose, 

Lock out all needless fear and care 
Till eyes in sleep shall close. 

For God looks down upon thy bed, 
And angels watch the while — 

Perchance the dear ones we call dead 
Will bend o'er thee and smile. 

Then sweetly sleep, since thou dost know 
The Shepherd guards His sheep. 

Lie down in simple trust, "for so 
He giveth His beloved sleep." 



THE GOSPEL OF THE SPRING 

A book of wonderful delight. 
Lettered in flowers, and bound in light, 
God's yearly, faithful offering — 
The gracious Gospel of the Spring. 

The warm rain prints it everywhere 
In tints most delicate and fair. 
On hill-side, and in valley low. 
Where'er the soft winds come and go. 

And tender messages are told 
Of love that God would thus unfold. 
Of promise — ever sure and true — 
Which He with Earth doth now renew. 



AND OTHER POEMS 71 

And on the grass-woof o'er each bed 
Where calmly sleeps my cherished dead 
In script of violets I ken, 
"This precious dust shall live again!'' 

Each silvery note the robin sfngs 
With joy of resurrection rings, 
With life — abundant, full and free, 
That overflows in melody. 

The birds, the trees, with each glad thing, 
Repeat the Gospel of the Spring, 
And gentle souls within are stirred 
By these sweet echoes of God's Word. 

They all proclaim anew the day. 
The happy morn not far away. 
When our beloved in Christ who sleep 
With us shall glorious Easter keep ! 



CHRIST'S LOVE 

Oh, who so patient with our faults? 
So gentle when the heart revolts? 
I search the world in vain to find 
A love as tender and as kind. 

He knows us well — He looks within 
And sees the weakness and the sin. 
Yet, knowing all. He loves us still, 
And seeks with good each life to fill. 



72 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

He is the one and only friend 
Pledged to go with us to the end. 
Since mightier far than Death is He, 
In His strong arms how safe are we ! 

From out life's daily, hourly need 
His ear is quick each cry to heed, — 
A mother sooner can reject 
Than He His trusting ones neglect. 

In His close fellowship I am sure 
All souls grow beautiful and pure; 
Oh then, my Savior and my Guide, 
Forevermore with me abide! 



"HE KNOWETH OUR FRAME" 

God understands me, and the thought 
Is with the sweetest solace fraught. 
He knows my frame and will not ask 
Too much of me, too hard a task. 

When others but my failures see. 
And feel to chide and censure me. 
He soothes me on His patient breast. 
For O, He knows I did my best! 

And when that best proves failure still. 
He sees the intent, marks the will. 
And supplements with strength and power 
My weakness, in the trying hour. 



AND OTHER POEMS 73 

To him who overcomes, 'tis writ, 
God gives at His right hand to sit, — 
And, by His gentleness made strong, 
I there will sing the victor's song! 



PRAYER 



A few mere words breathed forth at night 

When worn by toil and care. 
Too weary grown to think, or feel. 

And this — can this be prayer? 

What are the claims upon thy time ? 

Are they so vast, so great, 
That Jesus for His meager share 

Until the last must wait ? 

Shall wants and wishes of thine own 
Before the Lord's be sought? 

Must but the fragment of the day 
Be to His altar brought ? 

Nay, with the first soft light of morn 

Lift up thy heart and pray. 
Give not to God one hour alone. 

Give Him the livelong day. 

And if His love glows in thy heart 

Too bright for cares to dim. 
The humblest labor of thy hands 

Is worship unto Him. 



74 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Prayer is the soul's strong hold on God, 

Tis looking up alway, 
And only when they look to earth 

Do Christians cease to pray. 

It is the heart that Jesus wants, 

And if He reigneth there 
Thy life will be one hymn of praise. 

Thy very breath a prayer. 



INVOCATION TO THE BLUE BIRD 

Some kindly tree will its shadow fling 

Over my grave, ere long; 
Then come, dear bird, to its boughs and sing, 
Sing thy happiest song; 

Joy and hope in every strain. 
Never a note of grief or pain. 

Not that my heart will thy glad song need. 

Resting in peace so deep. 
Not that my ear will its sweetness heed, — 
But sing for the friends who weep; 
Tender, soothing, every strain, 
Never a note of grief or pain. 

I know the loved will oft wander there 

Lonely and sad to grieve. 
Then with their pitiful, plaintive prayer 
Thy song of gladness weave; 

Clear, and rich, and full, each strain. 
Never a note of grief or pain. 



AND OTHER POEMS 75 

Oh, bear their thoughts on thy silken wings. 

And upward, heavenward fly, 
As Faith with thee her sweet anthem sings 
Of immortality! 

Full of triumph every strain. 
Never a note of grief or pain! 



"LOVE ONE ANOTHER" 

Thou lovest the good, the pure and fair, 

Christ all humanity enfolds, 
Ah, make it then thy earnest prayer 

Like Him to love unlovely souls ; 
And bring them where the touch of grace 
Can give its charm to heart and face. 

The gentleness of love makes strong 

The timid and irresolute. 
If thou hast won no soul from wrong 

Love in thy heart lies dead, or mute, 
And God can resurrect alone. 
And give its words their winning tone. 

Count that day lost which doth record 
No kindly thought for human kind. 

But work of love finds full reward 
If thou one broken heart canst bind; 

If by thy watchings, prayer and pain, 

Weak souls their hold on God regain. 

The law's fulfillment is in love! 

The bright coin give then ne'er with stint. 
Is thy store low? Look thou above. 

Draw large supplies from God's own mint; 



76 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

He gives it free as rain, or air, 
What thou wilt give is but His care. 

Let love so reign within thy soul 

That every thought, and impulse thine. 

Shall bend to its supreme control 
Till seems the human half divine. 

And then thy life shall yield delight 

To Him, the God of love and light! 



IMPERFECT LIFE-WOOF 

I tried to weave close by the pattern 
The Master hath set with such care. 

To weave in the sweet Rose of Sharon 
And Lily exquisitely fair. 

Alas, my woof looks so imperfect 
In light of the fast-setting sun, 

I scarcely dare hope that the Master 
Will say at His coming, "Well done." 

I would other fingers more skillful 
Might take up my threads as I leave. 

And, warned by mistakes I made often. 
More carefully, prayerfully weave. 

The eye of the Master is loving. 
Yet never to flaws is it blind, — 

But knowing I strove hard to please Him, 
His judgment will surely be kind. 



AND OTHER POEMS 77 

Not more by success than by failure 
Will Christ judge the efforts we make, 

If only the heart is kept loyal, 

And earnestly serves for love's sake. 



"WE KNOW IN PART" 

Both life and death to us are fraught 
With mysteries which baffle thought ; 
We never here may fully trace 
Secrets of nature or of grace. 

Not half are solved with all our light, — 
But this we know, to live aright 
Is most that need concern us here, 
Or give an anxious thought or fear. 

Although we only know in part. 
Enough is plain to guide each heart, 
To quell the fears, to conquer doubt, 
And lead the soul in triumph out. 

Strong faith in Christ grasps unseen things. 
And to them firm and firmer clings — 
These are the real and the sure. 
That shall eternally endure. 

Of all the truths we yet have known 
The one that hath the dearest grown 
Is God's unbounded love to man. 
Which wrought the great redemption plan ! 



78 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Is not this truth enough to know? 
What need we more while here below? 
Then let all banners be unfurled, 
And shout, 'Tor God so loved the world !" 



'THERE'S NOTHING TRUE BUT HEAVEN" 

This was a song my mother sang 

At the quiet hour of even. 
How plaintive on the air it rang, 

"There's nothing true but Heaven." 

Then life to me was fresh and new, 

A gay and joyous thing, 
I ne'er had dreamed of aught untrue 

And grieved to hear her sing. 

But O, since time and death have taught 

Earth's bliss is insecure. 
How sweet and dear has grown the thought 

That God and Heaven are sure ! 



BE PATIENT 



Be equal to trials and prove thyself strong. 
Be patient, the storm will pass over ere long ; 
The heart can not always be bowed down with grief, 
And in His own time God will send thee relief. 

'Tis only thy good that His love would secure. 
Then all needed discipline bravely endure ; 
The end once attained, thou wilt gratefully own 
The wisdom and goodness thy Father hath shown. 



AND OTHER POEMS 79 

Thy life may be crippled, but sigh not at fate, 
God orders for each, and they serve who but wait, 
Sit patiently then, sit low at Christ's feet. 
For, working or waiting. His presence makes sweet. 



FORBEARANCE 

If we knew the secret anguish 
Borne by those we censure now, 

Our reproach would change to pity, 
And our hearts in sorrow bow. 

Oh, the little while we linger 
Where all suffer, and all die, 

Let us bear with one another. 
Let us pass each weakness by. 

Death is just beyond us waiting — 
We've no time for anger here — 

Only time to sow and gamer 
Loving thoughts, and words of cheer. 



HE TRUSTED IN RICHES 

Count over the mortgages, pile up the deeds — 
You find nothing there that a dying man needs ; — 
No sure claim to lands where the streams of life flow ; 
Then take them away, for they mock at my woe. 

Ah, wealth was my glory, my strength and my power, 
It served me full well until this fearful hour ; 
It bought for me honors, and titles, and friends. 
But here at death's portal its ministry ends. 



80 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

For gold cannot bribe the pure Angels that wait 
To usher me in through the dark, dismal gate, 
Or the Judge that sits there on His terrible throne — 
I go to His bar and must stand there alone. 

Talk not of God's mercy — I know it's too late — 
Can He pity one who hath turned from his gate 
The wretched who wept, and the hungry who prayed, 
When mine was the power to succor and aid? 

Then leave me to die, in the darkness to go — 
Far out in the midnight of eternal woe! 
Oh, sorrow of sorrows — Oh, anguish untold, 
A soul has been bartered for nothing but gold! 



IN RESERVE 



The eye hath not seen and the ear hath not heard. 

Nor yet can the fancy conceive 
What God hath reserved and pledged by His word 

To those who both love and believe. 

If only the heart is kept free from all guile, 

And trusts in the Savior's merits, 
We'll know for ourselves in a little while 

What a child of the King inherits. 



THE MOTHER'S LOVE 

There is no love like the mother's love ! 

If other hearts astrange, 
She clings to thee — like the God above — 

Through every varying change. 



AND OTHER POEMS 81 

Nor distance, time, nor death, can break 

This tie so strong and true, 
Ye'll find in Heaven, when both awake. 

Her old love fresh and new ! 



THE BELOVED PHYSICIAN 

Dr. Ellen E. Mitchell, my husband's sister, gave noble service as 
nurse in the Civil War, afterward was graduated in medicine, and 
was the first woman sent as a medical missionary by the Baptist 
Church of U. S. A. She founded the Baptist Hospital, and also the 
Leper Asylum in Matilmein, Burma, and was honored by King 
Edward in the decoration of "Kizer-i-Hind." 

A little modest woman, — still 
What strength of energy and will ! 
When others faltered in despair 
Hers was the power to do and bear. 

A zeal magnificently grand. 
Led her to heights that few command, 
Led her to depths where love alone 
Can sway a scepter, hold a throne. 

When Civil War its horrors brought 
How blest of God the work she wrought ! 
Then years of toil — a cluster bright — 
Were stars of hope in Burma's night. 

But back to us she will not come, — 
The smiling lips are cold and dumb. 
No more her voice our souls will thrill, 
The warm brave heart lies still, lies still. 



82 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

And she had hoped at last to rest, 
Montrose, close folded in thy breast, 
Amid her kindred there to sleep 
Where early friends fond watch would keep. 

Ah no, she found a lonely grave 
'Mid peoples she had died to save ; 
And love and reverence profound 
Will ever guard the sacred mound. 

O, Burma, she hath loved thee well, — 
That grave will her devotion tell, 
And teach the faith in which she died. 
The hope through Christ, the Crucified ! 



SEA MOSSES 

These pretty, dainty creatures. 
The mosses of the sea. 

Are very earnest preachers. 
Who talk of God to me. 

While glory is His vesture — 
He deigneth to stoop down 

And weave of silken texture 
Each little priest a gown. 

Exquisite color graces 

These robes so soft and fair, 
And never lovelier laces 

Can any prelate wear. 



AND OTHER POEMS 83 

God hath made stars by millions. 

And yet, as perfectly 
He makes an angel's pinions, 

Or mosses of the sea. 

What marvelous creation ! 

What mystery sublime ! 
I bow in adoration 

Before the Power Divine! 



OLD CALENDARS 

Lay them tenderly away. 

For their mission ends to-day. 

Dear Old Calendars ! how true 

They have been the whole year through ! 

They have marked the golden hours 
That will nevermore be ours, 
Marked the days so full of grief 
Only God could give relief. 

But the New Year comes to bring 
Many a bright and joyous thing, 
Many a glad and sweet surprise — 
Blessings, too, in sorrow's guise. 

Let us trust the Father's care 
Which surounds us everywhere. 
Trust the love that cannot fail, 
And the future gladly hail! 



84 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

OCTOBER TWENTIETH 

Our wedding day. 
And never skies were bluer, — 
Ah, never hearts were truer 

Than ours alway. 

But thou, twin mate. 
Hast been so long in Heave n,- 
While unto me is given 

The grace to wait. 

Yet wedded still, 
For not a saint the fairest, 
\ With voice the richest, rarest, 
My place can fill. 

And sweet 'twould be 
Could I this bright October 
In angel-arms pass over 

To dwell with thee! 



THE DEAD PASTOR 

Sad, stricken hearts, left shepherdless. 
Around the flower-strewn casket press, 
And gaze with tears, and bated breath. 
At noble manhood pale in death. 

The lips which but last Sabbath morn 
Gave words to comfort and to warn. 
And all our needs in prayer upbore. 
Will speak to us on earth no more. 



AND OTHER POEMS 85 

But look, a smile is lingering yet, 
A seal of love the Father set, 
Just as the white soul entered in 
Beyond the touch of pain or sin. 

He loved his work, and o'er it cast 
A wistful look e'en at the last, — 
But then with resignation sweet 
He laid it at the Master's feet. 

Preacher of righteousness and truth, 
Support of age, and guide, of youth, 
We thank thee for thy lessons taught, 
And treasure up each golden thought. 

Oh, not in vain thy toil hath been, 
The hosts which thou hast won from sin 
Will prove through all eternity 
Thy true and faithful ministry! 



VOICES FLOATING O'ER THE SEA 

Oft they break the midnight stillness, 
Voices floating o'er the sea. 

Voices filled with tender pathos. 
Asking help from you and me. 

Though between us and the heathen 
Countless leagues of ocean roll, 

Still their voices, plaintive, pleading, 
Speak to every Christian soul. 



86 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Listen! "We are living, dying, 
With no hope, and with no light, — 

Have ye no relief to offer? 
Hath our future nothing bright? 

"Dear ones die, — drift out in darkness. 
On — and on — we know not where. 

Mother love is ever crying 
For some refuge from despair. 

"Sense of guilt ofttimes oppresses. 
Filling us with grief and pain. 

And we know not how to rid us 
Of the burden and the stain. 

"Vain we seek the sacred river. 
Bear we still our load of sin. 

Idol worship, and self-torture. 
Cannot hush the voice within. 

"We are on a starless ocean, 
Dashed about by every wave. 

Know ye any god can help us? 
Any arm can reach and save?" 

Sad, sad words, and how they thrill me. 
For I know the Gospel balm 

Hath for all their wounds a healing, 
For each storm-tossed soul a calm. 

And I know my Christ, my Bible, 
Is as truly theirs as mine. 

And I wrong them, aye, defraud them. 
Not to share these gifts divine. 



AND OTHER POEMS 87 

We who never knew a sorrow 
God's dear smile could not illume, 

Little dream how dense the darkness 
Shrouding heathen souls in gloom. 

And the Savior's last commission 
Was in loving thought of them, — 

How His tender, sweet compassion 
Doth our cold neglect condemn. 

Christ, forgive the souls so faithless 
To the trust Thou didst repose ; 

And for this let not Heaven's portals 
At the last against us close. 

Forgive, and by our gold and silver, 

By our lips no longer dumb. 
We will spread abroad Thy Gospel, 

Till on earth Thy kingdom come. 



STILLNESS WITH GOD 

Oh, foolish heart, be still, be still. 
Sink down into the Father's will, 
He knows thee best. He fits thy load. 
It will not crush, it need not goad. 

How good and patient He hath been 
With thy complaints and with thy sin ! 
Hast thou no grateful word to bring? 
No tender hymn of praise to sing? 



88 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Oh, stricken heart, he stih, he stih, 
Tin love shall all thy being fill, 
Till holden eyes shall open wide 
And recognize their Lord and Guide. 



BE KINDLY 



Oh, let the bitter tears we shed 
O'er slightest word unkind we said 
To our beloved and precious dead 
Teach us the tenderest thought to give 
The dear ones who still with us live. 
Let us be kindly while we may, — 
We meet and mingle here to-day. 
To-morrow we shall pass away! 



KEEP TRYING 

If you would reach the ladder's top 
With all your strength and courage try ! 

And over failures do not stop — 
As little children do — and cry. 

Disgrace is not in failure here 

But simply in not trying, dear. 

Scatter good seed where'er you go. 
By common wayside or by streams — 

We know not which will root and grow, 
But work that often failure seems 

When judged at last by God's true test 

Of all our work may prove the best ! 



AND OTHER POEMS 89 

THE INEBRIATES' APPEAL 

Oh, men of God, look down, 

Down from your cloudless hight, 
To the depths of our despair, 
The darkness of our night! 
Have ye no ray of hope to throw 
Into this black abyss of woe? 

Twas not in willful scorn 

Of all that's good and true, 
'Twas but unconsciously 
Our fetters round we drew; 
While deadened powers, and weakened will. 
Keep fast the chains that bind us still. 

Oh, ye untrammeled ones. 

We sigh your peace to share! 
Ah, little do you wist 

What galling chains we wear, — 
But feel as bound with us to-day, 
And for your weaker brothers pray! 

We fain would speak to God, 
But lip and heart are vile ; 
We dread to meet His frown, 
Yet languish for His smile. 
Do fervent prayers of righteous men 
Avail with Him? Plead for us, then! 

Oh, tell to Him our need, 

Our utter poverty; 
Say all we prized is lost. 

Manhood, and purity, — 



90 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

The bliss of love, the sweets of home, 
Aye, e'en the hope of life to come ! 

Though proudly we have turned 

From pity and from blame, 
Hiding our misery. 

Our self-reproach and shame. 
Our pride ne'er soothed one secret pang, 
Or hushed the voice that inly rang. 

Insatiate appetite, 

Like some mad beast of prey, 
Drinks at our very hearts. 
Draining our life away. 
Is there no power relief can give? 
Such victims must we longer live? 

A serpent's fang hath pierced. 
With pain ye can not know; 
We feel through every vein 
The burning poison flow. — 
A Healer? Lift Him to our gaze, 
The Cross, the Christ before us raise! 

"Look unto me," He said! 

Said it for such as we! 
Then lift the Savior up, 
We long His face to see ! 
Oh, that some kindly aid He'd give, 
Oh, that He'd bid the dying live! 



AND OTHER POEMS 91 

MY FRIEND 

I have a fair and gentle friend, 
Whose steps the Angels e'er attend ; 
Although I never see their wings. 
By the blessed influence she brings 
I know with her into my home 
As welcome giiests they ever come. 

The room grows brighter where she sits, 
And o'er her face a light oft flits 
At which I gaze and think the while, 
It is reflection of God's smile! 
And rarest charms of inner grace 
Are ever glowing in her face. 

I wonder not her spirit pure 
The holy Angels should allure, 
I wonder not they linger oft 
To catch her words in tones so soft, 
And bear them up to blend in song, 
Till echoed by a countless throng. 

So glowingly she talks of Heaven 
There seems new inspiration given ; — 
Do they reveal — her sainted band. 
The glories of that Summer-land? 
It may be so, but Christ, her hope, 
Gives to her faith the broadest scope. 

My gentle friend, the true and tried, 
Walks very near the river side; 



92 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

My loving heart would clasp and hold, 
Would close in this earth-life enfold, — 
But waving hands are just in sight. 
And soon she'll whisper me, "Good-night." 



THE FALLEN 

The bells ring out, "To prayer, to prayer," 
And sweetly on the evening air 
The call reverberates everywhere. 

I fain would seek God's house the while. 
But holy ones with scorn would smile 
On one so wretched, one so vile. 

The pure alone go in, I see, 

To hold communion, Lord, with Thee, 

And oh, will no one pray for me? 

For me, a leaf kissed by the frost. 
Then out on cold winds rudely tost? — 
And no one care if I be lost! 

An angel whispers soft and low, 

"The dear Lord Christ doth care, I know, 

And thy own prayer to Him can go." 

Mom brings the tramp of hurrying feet. 
And stranger hands lift from the street 
A dead girl's face, a face most sweet. 

It wears no trace of sin, or care. 
But Oh, a wondrous smile is there, 
A smile that tells of answered prayer! 



AND OTHER POEMS 93 

THE GIFT TO CHRIST 

There came to us at Christmas Eve, 

When we had looked for mirth and joy, 

A guest it pained us to receive, 
An angel asking for our boy. 

"Oh, wherefore, wherefore hast thou come ?" 
From depths of agony we cried — 

"Oh, why make desolate our home?" 
And tenderly the guest replied: 

"I would bear up to Christ, our King, 
The fairest gift my hand can find — 

In wreath for Christmas offering 
Thy lovely flower I seek to bind." 

Ah me, the struggle of that night 

'Twixt love for Christ and for our child ! 

But morn, sweet Christmas morn, brought light. 
Brought soothing for our anguish wild. 

We gazed upon our darling's face. 
More beautiful for inner charms — 

Then, strengthened by a new-found grace. 
We laid him in the angel's arms. 



'KNOCK AND IT SHALL BE OPENED' 

"Jesus, we are orphan children, 
Little girls that have no home, 

We are very cold and hungry. 
And too tired to longer roam. 



94 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

"Thou hast food, and clothes, and shelter, 
Thou hast fire to make us warm, 

And thou hast a mother's pity. 

Take us then from out the storm," — 

Morning found two frozen children 
On a doorstep cold and chill. 

Arms entwined around each other, — 
Sweet believers, kneeling still. 

Surely they had there been knocking 
With their little hands so thin 

Till a door of Heaven opened. 
And the Savior took them in. 



A TRIBUTE 



Make room, sweet angels, let her pass. 
The guileless soul, the noble mind; 

Our love was strong, and yet, alas. 
This soul to earth it could not bind. 

Let one who knows her kindred band 
Lead her to where her loved ones are. 

But nay, she needs no guiding hand, 
Their love will draw like magnet star. 

And Christ will draw, and to His breast 
Her worn and weary head will turn. 

And there will find the long sought rest 
For which we still must wait and yearn. 



AND OTHER POEMS 95 

Not long we wait ; the years fly swift, 
Like eagles in their upward flight, 

And on their wings our souls they lift 
Up toward the realm of love and light. 



THE INNER LIFE 

Oh, Earth, how beautiful thou art 

In thy fair robe of Spring! 
New life, new joy, thrills every heart. 

And plumes each drooping wing. 
When sight and sound but pleasure give. 
It is a glorious thing to live! 

Alas, disease may make us dread 

E'en light and melody; 
The mildest ray, the softest tread. 

May yield but agony — 
'Tjs then the soul, shut out from Earth, 
Lives in the God that gave it birth. 

We know not half the charms in Him, 
The light, and love, and peace, 

Until this outer life grows dim, 
Till earthly pleasures cease — 

We then look up, and in His face 

What tender sympathy we trace ! 

And with His presence to illume. 

The inner life grows fair. 
Grows sweet, and fresh, with bud and bloom, 

Pure dews and genial air! 



96 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Lovelier far than flowers of Spring 
Are graces born of suffering. 

Ah, only by hard discipline 

The soul grows brave and strong! 

And when it conquers all within 
It fears no outward wrong. 

The crown of thorns is calmly worn. 

The heavy cross in meekness borne. 

While here within my silent room 
Through all the year I've lain, 

Amid its darkness and its gloom, 
Its weariness and pain. 

I've found. Oh God, how blest may be 

A life that's hid with Christ in Thee ! 



MINISTRY OF SUFFERING 

When gentle dews have failed to start 
The latent good within the heart, 

God sendeth heavy rain, 
The dry, hard soil to penetrate. 
Until each seed shall germinate. 

At length to yield ripe grain. 
Without the storms, without the tears, 
How fruitless pass the fleeting years. 

And life is worse than vain. 

Ah, He who made the heart must know 
What to deny, and what bestow ; 
He quick discerns its need: 



AND OTHER POEMS 97 

Which impulses must be subdued, 
Which ones uprooted, which renewed. 

His searching eye can read. 
Yet when by fitting discipline 
He would give life and health within. 

How slow are we to heed. 

What God designs for highest good, 
Is oft but blindly understood, 

And borne with murmuring. 
So precious and so sweet to me. 
Hath been the hallowed ministry 

Of earth-born suffering, 
I well may calm and patient bear, 
Nor dread what form my sorows wear,^ 

Since rich the gifts they bring. 

We need not more the day than night. 
And did we only read aright. 

We would as kindly take 
The chilling rain, as warm sunshine, 
Assured they secretly combine. 

And life's fresh verdure make. 
Then gratefully may we receive 
Whatever God sees best t& give. 

And prize it for His sake. 

Too great the Father's love must be 
To send His child adversity. 

But for some purpose wise. 
Though oft with pain this heart cries out, 
His love nor justice can I doubt, 

Howe'er my faith He tries. 



98 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

I am content to leave with Him, 
Unquestioning, whatever looks dim 
And dark to finite eyes. 

Our Elder Brother, Heaven's own King, 
Was perfect made through suffering ; 

And can we wish for less ? 
A lonely pilgrim's life He led. 
Nor had He where to lay His head — 

No pillow soft to press. 
The weight of all our grief He bore, 
And died, — but lives forevermore. 

Our Hfe, our righteousness. 

Ah, Suffering, the saints above 
Wear on their breasts a pearl of love, 

In memory of Thee. 
That hast thou been to us on earth, 
A friend of true and priceless worth, 

We each in Heaven shall see. 
And, Oh ! for strength to still endure^ 
Till thou hast made this heart all pure. 

Till ends thy ministry. 



LOOKING BACKWARD 

I am searching, searching ever, 
As the dear old paths I tread. 

For some fragment, sweet and tender, 
Of the days forever fled. 



AND OTHER POEMS 99 

For some link to bring them nearer, 
Bridging o'er the severed years, 

O, the past grows fairer, dearer, 
As I backward look through tears. 

Have our lives no sunny springtime. 
When dead hopes afresh will bloom ? 

Have our joys no resurrection? 
Must the past fore'er entomb? 

Ah, the God I love in Heaven, 

In a faithful trust doth hold 
For the new life, the eternal, 

All the sweetness of the old! 



WAIT PATIENTLY 

Dear heart, wait patiently and thou shalt see 
The clear revealings of this mystery. 
The why and wherefore of this rough, dark way- 
For God will lift the mist and clouds some day. 

He heeds the ravens that in hunger call. 
The lily clothes, and notes the sparrow's fall. 
Then surely for His children He will care 
And stoop to listen to each earnest prayer. 

Do well thy part, and Christ the rest will do. 
It is His joy to help thee safely through. 
Then question not, nor murmur at thy fate. 
But simply trust in Him, — and wait, and wait ! 



100 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

INVOCATION TO SLEEP 

Bend over my pillow, O beautiful Sleep, 

The charm of thy presence I gladly would keep. 

Good thoughts, like white poppies, drop down on 

my bed. 
And hum some old song of the days that are fled. 

Or weave me a couplet in numbers so sweet 
That over and over my heart will repeat 
Till softly away to the dream-land I glide. 
Mid whispers of zephyr and murmur of tide. 



GATHERING LEAVES 

From my window here I see. 
Out beneath yon crimson tree. 
Charming picture, fresh and bright, 
Glowing in October light. 

Girlhood sweet, with sunny face, 
Bendeth down in simple grace, 
Gath'ring up the Autumn leaves, 
While the lip a low strain breathes. 

By her gladness, by her smile, 
O'er her pleasant work the while. 
Stranger though the fair one be, 
Well I know she's kin to me. 

Beautiful are they, my friend. 
Leaves that rarest colors blend; 
Prized more fondly for His sake 
Who e'en death can lovely make. 



AND OTHER POEMS 101 

Soon for us dear hands will prove, 
All their tender, faithful love, 
Gath'ring up what's fair and good 
From our faded womanhood. 

Gentle words and loving deeds, 
Thoughtful care for others' needs, 
Death will shed o'er these a new, 
And a brighter, richer hue. 

He who gives each season place 
Will not all of Hfe efface; 
Something more than leaves shall stay 
When we pass from earth away : 

Each may leave in ripened fruit 
Seeds of truth to here take root. 
Gladsome thought for you and me, 
Truth hath immortality ! 



AT LAST 

EVENING HYMN 



And still nightly ere I slumber. 
One by one the loved I number, 
And my heart is asking ever, 
Shall we meet beyond the river? 
Shall we all reach Heaven at last? 

O, ye dear ones, sisters, brothers, 
'Tis the thought above all others 



102 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Fills my soul with anxious feeling, 
Keeps me at the altar kneeling, 
Shall we all reach Heaven at last? 

Humbly waiting at the altar 
To be offered, or to offer, 
If the need be, holy Father ; 
Deeming naught too great to suffer 
So we all reach Heaven at last ! 



DISSOLUTION 

Fading, fading, life is fading. 
Like the mellow sunset hue, 

Death's faint shadows darken, deepen, 
Coldly falls its chilling dew. 

And the soul doth shiver, shudder, 

With a dread it cannot utter. 

Drifting, drifting, slowly drifting, 
Out upon the shoreless sea. 

Out into the great hereafter, 
The unknown Eternity — 

Spirit, there is no returning. 

Look not back with silent yearning. 

Upward, upward, only upward. 

Turn thine eye in death's drear night. 

Up to Him who calms the tempest. 
And who speaks the darkness light. 

Lo, a voice floats down to cheer thee, 

"Fear thou not, for I am near thee !" 



AND OTHER POEMS 103 

Gliding, gliding, sweetly gliding, 

To the beautiful green isle. 
Where the early loved are waiting, 

With the dear, familiar smile. 
Oh, no joy to life is given 
Like the bliss of reaching Heaven. 

Dying, dying, — 'tis not dying, 
When the pure in heart pass out 

From the mournful sound of weeping, 
To the saints' triumphal shout! 

Tis the Soul's last fetter breaking, 

'Tis the Soul's eternal waking! 



CLINGING 



Here, o'ershadowed by death's wing, 
Fear with every hope must blend. 

And I dare not, dare not cling 
Where my trust so soon may end. 

While I joy in all earth gives 
That should fill the heart with bliss, 

Still my inmost being lives 
In a surer realm than this. 

Higher far than human love. 

Stronger far than human power, 

Is the aid I ever prove 
Equal to each trying hour. 



104 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Upward, Godward, reach my arms, 
Clinging, clinging, evermore. 

Unto Him who calms the storms. 
And brings safely to the shore. 

Trusting in the great unseen, — 
Heaven and earth may pass away, 

And I still can safely lean 
On this One eternal stay! 

As my grasp on earth grows weak, 
Firmer grows my hold on God! 

Let this faith to others speak, 
When I sleep beneath the clod ; 

A way-mark. Father, let it prove 
To one soul in doubt and pain. 

Guiding it unto Thy love, — 
Then Til not have lived in vain ! 



SATURDAY NIGHT 

The Saturday night with its quiet has come. 
And gladly the weary ones haste to their home. 
The week with its labor has sorely oppressed, 
And sweet is the thought of a Sabbath of rest. 

What memories fragrant entwine 'round this night, 
The happy reunions, the household delight; 
These nerve the brave toilers to struggle along, 
Till again comes the hour for home-greeting and 
song. 



AND OTHER POEMS 105 

The Saturday night of our life will soon come, 
And will we as gladly then haste to our home? 
Oh yes, if but sure that the morrow will prove 
The Sabbath in Heaven, where wait those we love ! 



BE TRUE TO CHRIST 

Be true, be true, 
Give Christ the homage due, 
For He and God were one 
Ere formed the earth or sun. 
The Word made flesh was He, — 
Incarnate Deity — 
The Son of God, the great "I Am" 
Who brought for all our ills a balm ! 
Then worship Him with grateful thought 
Of all His life and death have wrought ! 

Dear Christ, Thy sway 
Began that Christmas Day 
When o'er Judea rang 
The song the angels sang, 
"Peace on earth, good will to men !" 
To-day these words resound again. 
And may they ring more loud and clear 
Till all the world shall heed and hear, 
Till every knee to Thee shall bow. 
And every tongue allegiance vow ! 



106 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

BIRTHDAY GREETING 

The golden gate to another year 
Swings swiftly open for you, my dear, 
And in the path to which it leads 
God will give grace for all your needs. 

May every year reveal to you 
A sunnier path — your whole life through 
Until you reach the streets of gold 
And welcoming arms around you fold ! 



LOSS AND GAIN 

Near by my window where I've lain 
Through months of weariness and pain, 
There stands a graceful, stately tree, 
And close, familiar friends are we. 

I watched its leaf-buds, one by one, 
Unfolding to the April sun, 
Until it grew the fairest thing 
That I could see, or know, of Spring. 

I watched its delicate soft sheen 
Change into Summer's deepest green ; 
And soon as bright October came 
She gilded it with golden flame. 

Then, when the sun above it shone, 
No gown of queen upon her throne 
Could look more beautiful to me, 
For it was fair as fair could be. 



AND OTHER POEMS 107 

But yesterday the wind came 'round 
And swept its glory to the ground ; 
There is not left upon one bough 
A single leaf to greet me now. 

Twere sad with beauty thus to part, 
And loneliness stole o'er my heart ; 
Then suddenly within my room 
A flood of light dispelled the gloom. 

The thick, dense foliage of my tree 
Had shut the radiant sky from me, 
But now from out its glorious blue 
God's rarest smile seemed shining through. 

This is my recompense, I said, 
For loveliness so quickly fled. 
To hail the light, and watch the sky. 
Where dearest hopes and treasures lie. 

Oh, heart of mine, howe'er bereft. 
Thou still wilt find rich blessings left; 
Thy choicest gifts full oft are given 
By less of Earth and more of Heaven. 



THE MIDNIGHT GUESTS 

My own dear ones who dwell in light 

Come back to me in dreams at night ; 

I feel their kisses on my cheek 

And hear the tender words they speak, 

I look into the love-lit eyes 

And soul to soul gives fond replies. 



108 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

How sweet, how wonderfully sweet — 
If but in dreams — again to meet, 
Just as we met in days of old, 
With love that never will grow cold, 
A love so loyal, strong, and true. 
Forever fresh, forever new ! 

Yet when these dear guests seem to leave 

And I awake, I do not grieve. 

Biit lie as quietly and calm 

As infant soothed by mother's psalm, 

While praise floats up with every breath 

To Christ, my Lord, who vanquished death ! 

God, I thank Thee for each year 
These noble souls dwelt with us here. 
And for assurance Thou dost give 
Of ages still with them to live ! 

1 thank Thee for the Gospel light 

That breaks the gloom of darkest night! 



MY MOTHER'S WELCOME 

Fond memory treasures as sacredly sweet 
The many home-comings when mother would greet, — 
And now how I long for, still long for and miss. 
The clasp of her arms, and her welcoming kiss. 

Ah, the light that would gleam in her tender blue eyes, 
The joy in her voice with its loving replies. 
And then the pure bliss to sit down by her side 
And hold the dear hand that was ever our guide. 



AND OTHER POEMS 109 

Oh, mother, my mother, had Heaven nothing more 
To keep as reward for thy children in store. 
Twill pay us for all that we here may endure 
If there of thy welcome we only make sure. 



JUST ONE PROMISE 

God alone can bridge the chasm 
'Twixt this life and life to be. 

And just one eternal promise 
Gives the soul security. 

"Because / live ye shall live also," 
Christ hath said to you and me. 

Believers cross on this undaunted 
To the great Futurity! 

Just one promise, and how many 
In the Word of God I read ! 

These are mighty undergirdings, 
All-sufficient for each need ! 



HOLD FAST 



Hold fast thy faith in God, my friend — 
On whom for help canst thou depend 

But Christ, the Lord? 
Though pain and grief grow more intense. 
There waits for thee a recompense, 

A just reward. 



110 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

Hold fast the faith thy mother taught, 
That gilded tender, early thought 

With Jesus^ love. 
And let this pure faith ever be 
Between the unseen world and thee 

A carrier dove. 

Faith sweetens every bitter cup, 
Faith leads the soul still higher up, 

And home at last. 
Then clasp anew this gift divine. 
And till He comes — thy Lord and mine- 
Hold fast, hold fast! 



GOD'S MERCY 

If we only would remember 
God's great mercy in the past 

We would trust Him now and ever, 
Though the darkest clouds o'ercast. 

Hath He ever, ever failed us 
When the crucial hours had come ? 

When no human aid availed us, 
And we knelt before Him dumb ? 

With the Father's love and pity 
Then He lifted to the light. 

Gave us visions of a City 
Where there is no death or night ! 



AND OTHER POEMS 111 

O, God's mercy is more tender 

Than we yet can understand ! 
Safely then we may surrender ! 

All we have into His hand. 



PARTING WITH THE OLD YEAR 

Old Year, we part to-night, 
And never, never more will meet 
Till at the final Judgment Seat 

In searching light! 

My record thou wilt bear, — 
Then wait, Old Year, we must not part 
Till I have bowed with contrite heart 

In solemn prayer. 

Great God, through Christ I plead ! 
Oh, let His nail-scarred hand erase 
My every sin, and leave no trace 

In thought or word, or deed. 

My heart grows sweetly calm ; — 
No merit of my own I claim, 
But in Christ's all-prevailing name 

Find heavenly balm. 

Pass softly out, Old Year, 
I dread no more to meet thee at God's Bar, 
For He — my bright and morning Star — 

Dispels all doubt and fear! 



112 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

THE SOUL'S GUESTS 

Forgetting that new buds will bloom, 
The Soul sat weeping in her room, 
Wrapt in a cloak of deepest gloom. 

A dear, young Hope — which slowly died — 
That day was buried side by side 
With her twin sisters, Joy and Pride. 

Nor ceased the Soul to mourn and grieve. 
And plaintive requiems still to weave 
Amid the shadows of that eve. 

While thus she sat — from God apart — 
Quick through the portals of her heart 
She saw a black-robed figure dart. 

*'Ah, Pity knows my pet is dead 

And comes to weep with me," she said. 

Yet never raised her drooping head. 

Had she but looked in those grey eyes 
She would have read the poor disguise. 
The mockery of tears and sighs. 

The guest anon leaned o'er the Soul, — 
Then 'round the room would listless stroll. 
As if forgetting to console. 

In truth the strange one seemed to fill 
The very air with some dread chill, 
Which made the Soul more wretched still. 

At length she murmured to her guest, 
"The night is passing, seek thy rest, — 
I am too much with grief opprest." 



AND OTHER POEMS 113 

At this the Soul was left alone — 
No gleam of light, no sound or tone, 
Save now and then a fitful moan. 

The hours with slow soft tread went past, 
And when the morn its radiance cast 
The Soul looked up — with face aghast. 

For on the wall there met her sight 
Words written out in broad clear light — 
The thoughts she struggled with that night. 

Words calling God unjust, unkind, 
The language of a troubled mind 
That would not yield, or be resigned. 

"What impious hand those letters traced? 
Ah me, can they not be effaced?" 
And to and fro the sad one paced. 

Alas, in every room had been 

Some one whose breath made foul by sin 

Had deeply tarnished all within. 

The Soul looked toward her room of prayer, 
Could one be base enough to dare 
To desecrate the altar there ? 

She turned to it with hurrying feet. 
And longing for some solace sweet 
She knelt beside the mercy-seat. 

But strange misgivings filled her breast, — 
She could not pray, she could not rest, 
And rising, saw her last night's guest. 



114 THE LAKE OF PEACE 

"O wicked Doubt, thou canst not hide 
The evil in thine eyes," she cried, 
"Though artful pretense thou hast tried. 

"O'ercome by grief of yesterday 
I did not watch, I did not pray, 
So hither thou didst find thy way. 

"But now thy shameful work is o'er," — 
And through each room and corridor 
She led her to the outer door. 

"Go now," she said, "I will be free 

Forever from thy tyranny," 

Then closed the door, and turned the key. 

She saw the black-robed guest depart, 
Yet while polluted still her heart 
But little joy could aught impart. 

"Oh, who can cleanse these stains ?" she sighed, 
And then a low, sweet voice replied, 
"The blessed Christ, the Crucified I" 

A presence, though unseen, she felt, 
Which made each hardened feeling melt, — 
With covered face she humbly knelt. 

The thought which pained her most to bear 
Was that Doubt had not entered there 
But for her long neglect of prayer. 

To God she looked with tear-wet eyes 
Till said the voice, "My child arise," 
And O, the joy of that surprise ! 



i 



AND OTHER POEMS 115 

The wounded hands where prints remain 
Of nails which pierced our Lord with pain 
Had washed the heart from every stain. 

The happy Soul a glad hymn trilled, 
From room to room it rang, and thrilled. 
Till all that heart with praise was filled. 

When died the last soft note away 
The low sweet voice was heard to say, 
"Till Heaven is gained still watch and pray !" 



THE UNFAILING CHRIST 

When every earthly prop has failed 
We grasp the hands for us once nailed 

Upon the cross ; 
And then we gain the wondrous power 
To triumph in the darkest hour 

Of grief and loss. 



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